Paronychia

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

Paronychia is an infection of the tissue adjacent to a nail, most often a fingernail. It is caused by injury or irritation, such as a hangnail, cuticle damage, or continually wet hands.

Symptoms

Adjacent tissue is painful, red, and swollen. There may be suspected or obvious pus.

Treatments

Treatments include hot water soaks and medications, such as antibiotics or antifungals. Pus may need to be drained.