Which condition is characterized by inflammation of the skin around the nail?

Paronychia is the condition characterized by inflammation of the skin around the nail. This condition typically occurs when bacteria or fungi enter through a break in the cuticle or skin surrounding the nail. Factors that can contribute to paronychia include trauma to the nail area, excessive moisture, or frequent hand washing, which can weaken the skin barrier. Symptoms often include redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes pus formation around the nail.

The other conditions listed involve different aspects of nail and skin health. Agnails refer specifically to hangnails, which are small strips of skin that have split around the nail but do not involve inflammation. Onycholysis is the separation of the nail from the nail bed and does not involve inflammation of the surrounding skin, while psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can affect the nails but encompasses systemic inflammation rather than localized inflammation around the nail. Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying and treating nail and skin issues effectively.