Paronychia: When Nail-Fold Inflammation Is—and Isn’t—Candida
Key point: Paronychia means inflammation around a nail. Sudden painful swelling is usually bacterial; long-lasting inflammation is often driven by repeated wet work or irritant dermatitis, with Candida sometimes present secondarily. “Candida paronychia” should not be assumed from appearance alone. The nail fold and cuticle form a seal that protects the space beside the nail….