Paronychia is the name given to infection of the skin and soft tissue around the nail. It usually occurs on the fingernails or toenails. In this infection, which can be caused by bacteria, fungi or a combination of both, redness, swelling, pain, increased warmth and inflammation can be seen around the nail. Viral agents can also sometimes cause this condition (e.g. herpetic whitlow).
Causes:
Manicure and pedicure procedures that irritate the skin at or around the edge of the nail.
Habits such as nail biting, picking and finger sucking.
Hands remaining wet for long periods (for example, in dishwashers or cleaning staff).
Poor personal hygiene, or minor cuts or wounds in the skin.
Paronychia can present acutely or chronically. The acute form is often an infection caused by bacteria. Symptoms begin suddenly. It often develops after trauma, such as picking or cutting. Chronic paronychia is a longer-term infection that develops more slowly.
It's often accompanied by fungi. Frequent exposure to water, detergents and prolonged contact with chemicals keeps the skin around the nail constantly moist and sensitive, allowing micro-organisms to multiply easily.
Chronic paronychia can also be accompanied by prolonged redness and thickening of the tissue, along with recession of the nail fold and deformities in the nail shape.
In treatment, keeping the infected area clean and dry is essential. Local and/or systemic antibiotics, as deemed appropriate by the doctor, can be used. In chronic cases, antifungals can be added to treatment. If an abscess is present, a minor procedure to drain the inflammation may be needed.