Painful red swellings of the nailfolds which may be due to bacteria or yeast.
Acute Paranychia
Tenderness and presence of pus indicates the need for systemic antibiotics
Drug of choice |
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (O) for 5-7 days |
Second choice |
Cloxacillin (O) for 5-7 days
Dosages as for impetigo |
Chronic Paranychia
Often fungal, due to Candida. Avoid excessive contact with water, protect from trauma and apply:
Miconazole or Clotrimazole cream, apply twice daily.
Treat secondary infection with antibiotics as above.
NOTE For both acute and chronic paronychia, incision and drainage may be needed |
