Acute and Chronic Paronychia of the Hand : JAAOS - Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (original) (raw)
Review Article
From the Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT.
Neither of the following authors nor any immediate family member has received anything of value from or has stock or stock options held in a commercial company or institution related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article: Dr. Shafritz and Dr. Coppage.
Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 22(3):p 165-174, March 2014. | DOI: 10.5435/JAAOS-22-03-165
Abstract
Acute and chronic infections and inflammation adjacent to the fingernail, or paronychia, are common. Paronychia typically develops following a breakdown in the barrier between the nail plate and the adjacent nail fold and is often caused by bacterial or fungal pathogens; however, noninfectious etiologies, such as chemical irritants, excessive moisture, systemic conditions, and medications, can cause nail changes. Abscesses associated with acute infections may spontaneously decompress or may require drainage and local wound care along with a short course of appropriate antibiotics. Chronic infections have a multifactorial etiology and can lead to nail changes, including thickening, ridging, and discoloration. Large, prospective studies are needed to identify the best treatment regimen for acute and chronic paronychia.
© 2014 by American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons