User:Mr. Ibrahem/Paronychia

Paronychia is inflammation of the skin around the nail. It may present suddenly with pain, redness, swelling, and pus; or gradually with mild tenderness, redness, and nail changes. The index and middle fingers are most commonly affected, though other fingers or toes may be involved. Complications may include an abscess.

It may occur due to an infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal), as a result of irritation such as frequent hand washing or nail biting, or as a result of certain medications. When due to the bacteria Staph. aureus onset is generally sudden, while when due to Candida albicans it is generally gradual. Minor trauma may also result in an increased risk of infection. Diagnosis is generally based on examination.

Acute paronychia is generally treated by warm compresses, antibiotics, or incision and drainage. Chronic paronychia is generally treated by avoiding the underlying cause together with an antifungal and corticosteroid cream such as clotrimazole and betamethasone. It is a common infection of the hand. Women are affected three times as often as men.