Paronychia

Definition: Inflammation of the skin around a finger or toenail.

Types:

. Acute: Rapid onset, usually bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus).

. Chronic: Persists >6 weeks, often fungal.

Symptoms: Pain, redness, swelling around the nail fold.

Management:

Minor Infection:

Topical fusidic acid.

Severe Infection:

Oral flucloxacillin or oral clarithromycin.

Abscess Present:

Surgical drainage followed by packing with gauze.