What condition does paronychia describe?

Paronychia refers specifically to an infection that occurs around the nail, which can affect either the fingernails or toenails. This condition generally arises due to bacteria or fungi entering the area, often when the skin around the nail is injured or compromised, which can happen with hangnails, bites, or excessive moisture. Symptoms of paronychia may include redness, swelling, and pus accumulation, indicating an infectious process in that area. Understanding this is vital for recognizing the condition and knowing how to approach treatment, which often involves proper wound care and, in some cases, antibiotics if the infection is bacterially driven.