paronühhia

Paronühhia is a common skin infection that affects the tissues around the fingernails or toenails. It can be classified as either acute or chronic. Acute paronühhia typically develops suddenly and is often caused by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, entering the skin through a break or cut. This can happen from nail biting, hangnails, or aggressive manicures. Symptoms of acute paronühhia include redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area, often accompanied by pus formation under the skin.

Chronic paronühhia, on the other hand, develops more gradually and persists for six weeks or longer. It is more commonly associated with prolonged exposure to moisture, irritants like detergents, or certain medical conditions such as diabetes or inflammatory skin diseases like eczema. In chronic cases, the nail fold may become thickened, discolored, and separated from the nail plate. Fungal infections, particularly Candida albicans, are a frequent culprit in chronic paronühhia, often occurring in conjunction with bacterial infections.

Diagnosis is usually made based on the clinical presentation. Treatment for acute paronühhia often involves warm compresses and, if there is a significant collection of pus, a minor surgical procedure to drain it. Antibiotics may also be prescribed. For chronic paronühhia, identifying and avoiding the underlying irritant or cause is crucial. Topical or oral antifungal medications are often used, and in some persistent cases, topical corticosteroids may be helpful. Maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding trauma to the nail area are important preventative measures for both forms of the infection.