Description:
An infection
of the soft tissue around a fingernail or toenail that
begins suddenly and can get worse quickly. It is usually
caused when bacteria enter through a break in the skin from
a hangnail or ingrown toenail, by damage to the cuticle
(skin at the base of the nail), or by an injury to the area
where the nail and skin meet. Acute paronychia may also
sometimes be caused by treatment with certain drugs used to
treat cancer or immune system disorders. Signs and symptoms
include pain, tenderness, warmth, redness, and swelling
around the nail. Pus may form in the skin around or under
the nail. When treated, acute paronychia usually heals
within 10 days.
