The term applied to inflammation near the nail (see under SKIN). The infection, usually caused by Staphyloccous aureus (see STAPHYLOCOCCUS), may affect the tissues around the nail, including its root, and sometimes spreads to the pulp of the affected finger or toe. The tendons that run along the back of the infected digit may occasionally become infected. ACUTE paronychia are the most common type, with local pain, tenderness and swelling of the nail fold. Treatment is with ANTIBIOTICS or, if an ABSCESS forms, local surgery to release any pus.

Chronic paronychia occur with reinfection of the nail bed. This is usually because the person's hands are regularly immersed in water, making the skin vulnerable to infection. The finger should be kept dry and a dry dressing applied accompanied by a course of antibiotics.