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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Onychomycosis and Paronychia?

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Onychomycosis and paronychia are both fungal infections affecting the nails, but they differ in the specific location and type of fungus involved.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails, caused by various fungi such as yeasts and non-dermatophyte molds. It is more common in toenails than fingernails and typically results in discoloration of the nail, either partially or completely. The infection is caused by organisms like Trichophyton rubrum, which accounts for about 80% of cases in the UK, and occasionally by non-dermatophyte molds and Candida species.

Paronychia, on the other hand, is an infection of the proximal and lateral toenail and fingernail folds, affecting the tissue surrounding the nail. It is usually caused by Candida albicans and occasionally by other Candida species. Paronychia can be classified as either acute or chronic, with acute paronychia being a painful and purulent condition often caused by bacterial infection, especially staphylococci. Chronic paronychia is caused by mechanical or chemical factors and sometimes by infectious agents, particularly Candida species. Risk factors for chronic paronychia include certain occupations (e.g., dishwashers, bartenders, housekeepers), certain medications, and immunosuppression (e.g., diabetes, HIV, malignancy).

In summary, the main differences between onychomycosis and paronychia are:

  • Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail itself, while paronychia is an infection of the surrounding tissue of the nail.
  • Onychomycosis is typically caused by various fungi, including Trichophyton rubrum and Candida species, while paronychia is usually caused by Candida albicans.
  • Onychomycosis affects both toenails and fingernails, but toenails are more commonly affected. Paronychia can also affect both toenails and fingernails.
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  • What is the Difference Between Onychomycosis and Paronychia?
  • Comparative Table: Onychomycosis vs Paronychia

    • Comparative Table: Onychomycosis vs Paronychia

    Onychomycosis and paronychia are both nail disorders, but they have different etiologies and treatments. Here is a table comparing the differences between the two:

    Feature Onychomycosis Paronychia
    Definition Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails, involving the nail plate, nail bed, or both. Paronychia is an infection of the proximal and lateral toenail and fingernail folds.
    Causes Fungi such as dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds. Bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus, and other irritants.
    Risk Factors Tinea pedis, previous nail dystrophy, older age, male sex, exposure to someone with tinea pedis or onychomycosis, peripheral vascular disease, or diabetes. Acute paronychia usually involves only one digit at a time, and more widespread disease warrants a broader investigation for systemic issues.
    Symptoms Discoloration, thickening, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. Inflammation of the fingers or toes in one or more of the three nail folds.
    Diagnosis Direct microscopy and fungal culture. Visual examination and possible culture of the affected area.
    Treatment Systemic antifungal agents (e.g., terbinafine) for onychomycosis. Topical or oral antibiotics for acute paronychia, and treatment of underlying conditions for chronic paronychia.

    It is essential to differentiate between onychomycosis and paronychia to provide appropriate treatment and manage these nail disorders effectively.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.