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Occurrence of Candida strains in cases of paronychia

E Dorko1, J Jautová, E Pilipcinec

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Safárik University, 041 80 Kosice, Slovakia. erikdorco@pobox.sk

Folia Microbiologica
|February 11, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Candida albicans is the most common yeast causing fingernail paronychia in both males and females. Other Candida species and various bacteria were also identified in infected patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Paronychia, an infection of the nail fold, can be caused by various microorganisms.
  • The role of Candida species, particularly in fingernail paronychia, requires detailed investigation.
  • Understanding the microbial spectrum is crucial for effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the spectrum of Candida species and other microorganisms associated with fingernail paronychia.
  • To determine the prevalence of different Candida species in male and female patients with paronychia.

Main Methods:

  • Yeast identification using standard microbiological techniques: germ-tube production, rice agar Tween 80 morphology, and saccharide fermentation/assimilation.
  • Isolation and identification of accompanying aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.
  • Analysis of microbial findings based on patient gender.

Main Results:

  • Candida albicans was the predominant yeast species isolated from both male (9/11) and female (17/32) patients.
  • Other Candida species identified included C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei.
  • A variety of bacteria, including Fusobacterium spp., Bacteroides spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, were also isolated.

Conclusions:

  • Candida albicans is a significant causative agent of fingernail paronychia.
  • The polymicrobial nature of paronychia, involving both yeasts and bacteria, highlights the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches.
  • Findings provide insights into the etiological agents of paronychia, aiding in clinical management.

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