Paronychia is a superficial infection that involves the tissues around the fingernail. It most commonly involves bacterial or fungal inflammation. It is not contagious. It is usually the result of injury or trauma to this tissue. In severe forms of this disorder, distortion and deformity of the nail may occur. The nail may loosen and fall off.
Causes of Paronychia
Bacterial paronychia usually occur when there is trauma or injury to the base of the nail or cuticle. Fungal infections are more common to occur in people with diabetes mellitus and in persons who have their hands wet for extended periods of time.
Signs and Symptoms of Paronychia
Symptoms of bacterial paronychia usually come on rather abruptly. There is redness, swelling and pain in the tissues surrounding the fingernail. Occasionally, an abscess may develop, with a small, white lump forming filled with pus. In severe cases, the nail may become detached from the nail bed. The nail may appear distorted or deformed. Fungal paronychia usually develops over a longer time. Similar symptoms may occur, but there is generally not so much pain, swelling or redness. Secondary bacterial infections may develop in someone that has a fungal paronychia.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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