Nail-fold swelling and large pus-filled lesions are typical of a bacterial paronychia. Typical to paronychia, the nail fold is swollen, red, and tender. This image displays a rough, distorted nail due to chronic inflammation in the skin around the nail, known as paronychia. This image displays pus, which typically accompanies acute paronychia. This image displays redness and swelling around the cuticle of the nail typical of early paronychia. This image displays cracks and swelling around the nail typical of chronic paronychia.
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Nail Infection, Bacterial (Paronychia):
Information for adults

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Picture of Nail Infection, Bacterial (Paronychia): Nail-fold swelling and large pus-filled lesions are typical of a bacterial paronychia. Divider line
Nail-fold swelling and large pus-filled lesions are typical of a bacterial paronychia.
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Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe
For acute paronychia, your doctor may:
  • Puncture and drain the affected area and test for bacteria or viral infection.
  • Prescribe antibiotics for a bacterial infection or an antiviral medication for a herpes infection.
For chronic paronychia, your doctor may:
  • Prescribe a topical steroid.
  • Prescribe a topical antifungal medication.
  • Prescribe an oral antifungal medicine or antibiotics. 
Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008

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