Fungal nail infections may be difficult to treat and may become a reservoir for fungal organisms, causing their recurrence in the skin or nails. The fungal nail infection is cured by the growth of new, non-infected nails. Even with successful treatment a relapse is common. Call your health care provider if you experience persistent fungal nail infections or if the fingers become painful, red, or drain pus. A paronychia is an infection around the nail.
Many organisms can cause a paronychia.
This particular case is caused by the yeast-like organism Candida. Fungal infections of the nail are referred to as onychomycosis. Candida is a frequent cause of onychomycosis. Other fungi may be involved. This photograph demonstrates discoloration, friability, and crumbling of the nails.