Summary about Disease
Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the fingernails or toenails. It can be acute, developing quickly, or chronic, lasting for weeks or longer. Acute paronychia is usually caused by bacteria, while chronic paronychia is often caused by fungi or a combination of factors.
Symptoms
Symptoms of paronychia can include:
Redness, swelling, and tenderness around the nail
Pain, throbbing
Pus-filled blisters (abscess)
Changes in nail shape, color, or texture
Nail separation from the nail bed (in severe cases)
Causes
Acute Paronychia: Usually caused by bacterial infection, often Staphylococcus aureus*. Injury to the cuticle or nail fold (e.g., from biting, picking, manicures, or hangnails) allows bacteria to enter.
Chronic Paronychia: Often caused by fungal infection (e.g., Candida), or a combination of fungi and bacteria. Exposure to irritants and moisture (e.g., frequent hand washing, working in wet environments) can contribute.
Medicine Used
Acute Paronychia:
Antibiotics (oral or topical), if bacterial infection is present. Common antibiotics include cephalexin or clindamycin.
Incision and drainage of abscess, if present.
Chronic Paronychia:
Topical antifungal creams or solutions (e.g., clotrimazole, ketoconazole).
Oral antifungal medications (e.g., fluconazole, itraconazole) may be necessary in severe or persistent cases.
Topical steroids may be used to reduce inflammation.
Is Communicable
Paronychia itself is generally not directly communicable from person to person in the sense of catching it through casual contact. However, the bacteria or fungi that cause it can be spread. It's important to avoid sharing personal items like nail clippers or towels to prevent the spread of potential pathogens.
Precautions
Avoid nail biting and picking at cuticles.
Protect hands from excessive moisture and irritants (wear gloves when washing dishes or working in wet conditions).
Properly treat any cuts or injuries around the nails.
Avoid aggressive manicures that can damage the cuticle.
Keep nails clean and dry.
How long does an outbreak last?
Acute Paronychia: With proper treatment (antibiotics or drainage), acute paronychia usually resolves within 5-10 days.
Chronic Paronychia: Chronic paronychia can last for several weeks or even months. It may require prolonged treatment with antifungal medications and avoidance of irritants.
How is it diagnosed?
Visual examination: A doctor can usually diagnose paronychia by looking at the affected area.
Culture: In some cases, a sample of pus or nail scrapings may be taken to identify the specific bacteria or fungi causing the infection.
Timeline of Symptoms
Acute Paronychia:
Day 1-2: Initial redness, swelling, and tenderness.
Day 2-5: Pain intensifies; pus-filled blister may form.
With treatment: Improvement typically seen within a few days.
Chronic Paronychia:
Gradual onset: Slow development of redness, swelling, and thickening of the nail fold.
Weeks-Months: Symptoms persist, with possible nail changes and recurring inflammation.
Important Considerations
Diabetic individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of developing paronychia and may experience more severe infections.
Seek medical attention if the infection doesn't improve with home care or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
Untreated paronychia can lead to more serious infections or nail deformities.
Proper hygiene and nail care are crucial for prevention.