Diagnosis: Chronic paronychia
Findings: “Nail folds are swollen, erythematous, tender and lifted off the nail plate.” — Dr Alaa Saad
Key teaching points:
- Often lacks the fluctuance seen in acute paronychia though sometimes small amounts of pus can be present
- Often exacerbated by water contact
- Mixed microbes often involved including yeast and bacteria
- There may be an underlying component of dermatitis
- Treatment may include keeping fingers dry, using barrier creams, topical corticosteroids, antibiotics and anti-yeast medication
- Trauma should be avoided to the area
Credit: Case submitted by Dr. Alaa Saad to dermRounds Dermatology Network