Paronychia

Paronychia is infection/inflammation of nail fold (acute: staph/strep; chronic: candida/irritant), presenting with nail-fold pain, swelling, erythema, and possible pus. Treatment: warm soaks; elevation; avoid trauma/irritants; topical mupirocin (acute bacterial) or antifungal (chronic/candida); oral anti-staph/strep antibiotics for extensive; incision/drainage if fluctuant; partial nail removal if ingrown; monitor for osteomyelitis/felon; follow-up.

Common Symptoms

Nail-fold pain; swelling; erythema; pus; staph/strep/candida

Causes and Pathogenesis

Nail-fold trauma/water/irritant causes bacterial/candida infection.

Treatment

Warm soaks; topical/oral antibiotics/antifungals; drainage if abscess

Preventive Measures

Avoid nail-biting; gloves for wet work; treat hangnails.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology/General-surgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.