What is the technical name for the condition commonly known as ringworm of the nail?

The condition commonly known as ringworm of the nail is technically referred to as tinea unguium. This term specifically refers to a fungal infection that affects the nails, leading to changes in color, shape, and texture of the affected nail(s). Tinea unguium is caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, and they can invade the nail bed and nail plate, resulting in a characteristic presentation.

Tinea pedis, on the other hand, refers to athlete's foot and involves the skin of the feet, not the nails. Onychomycosis is a broader term that encompasses any fungal infection of the nail, and while it may sound similar, it does not specifically denote the condition commonly known as ringworm of the nail. Dermatophytosis is a general term for a skin fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, which can include tinea unguium as a subset but is less specific regarding the nail involvement. Therefore, tinea unguium is the most precise term to describe ringworm of the nail.