PERIONYCHIA Meaning and
Definition
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Perionychia is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and infection in the tissues surrounding the nails, known as the nail folds. It primarily affects the fingers, but can also occur in the toes. The condition is usually caused by bacteria or fungi entering the area around the nail, resulting in pain, redness, swelling, and pus formation.
Perionychia can be categorized into two main forms: acute and chronic. Acute perionychia typically develops suddenly and is often caused by injury to the nail fold, such as from nail biting or manicuring habits that traumatize the skin. Chronic perionychia, on the other hand, is more persistent and recurrent. It is commonly associated with chronic irritants, like prolonged exposure to water or chemicals, or underlying conditions such as diabetes or immunodeficiency.
Treatment for perionychia involves addressing the underlying cause and providing symptomatic relief. In mild cases, warm water soaks and proper hygiene may be sufficient to alleviate the inflammation and promote healing. However, in more severe or recurrent cases, medical intervention may be necessary. This can include the use of topical or systemic antibiotics to combat infection, drainage of any abscesses, or nail avulsion (removal) if the condition does not resolve with other measures.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and promote optimal recovery. Seeking medical advice is recommended in cases of persistent pain, swelling, or signs of spreading infection.
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Inflammation of the perionychium; whitlow.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PERIONYCHIA
- oerionychia
- lerionychia
- -erionychia
- 0erionychia
- pwrionychia
- psrionychia
- pdrionychia
- prrionychia
- p4rionychia
- p3rionychia
- peeionychia
- pedionychia
- pefionychia
- petionychia
- pe5ionychia
- pe4ionychia
- peruonychia
- perjonychia
- perkonychia
- peroonychia
Etymology of PERIONYCHIA
The word "perionychia" is formed from two roots: "peri-" and "-onychia".
The prefix "peri-" derives from the Greek word "peri" (περί), meaning "around" or "about". It is commonly used in English to indicate something that is "surrounding" or "enclosing".
The suffix "-onychia" is derived from the Greek word "onux" (ὄνυξ), which means "nail". In English, the term "-onychia" is used to refer to a condition or inflammation related to the nail.
Therefore, "perionychia" combines these two elements to create a word that describes an inflammation or infection that occurs around the nail.
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