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Dermatology  (Expert Forum)
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Red patch on thumb
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center Brookline - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Dermatology issues, such as: skin rashes, acne, birthmarks, skin infections, rosacea, and general skin care.

Red patch on thumb

by Paul, Jan 04, 2001 12:00AM
The skin adjacent to my thumb nail has become red an tender.  About 1/2" in diameter, the area appears to be thinning, or loosing skin layers, out from the center.  There isn't any real pain, itch or other discomfort although it is somewhat sensitive to hot water.  When working out side, the area once started bleeding mildly due to rubbing.  Nothing known precipitated the condition which has lasted approx. three weeks.  I have tried skin creams, bandages, etc. to no avail.



Thanks in advance for your response.  













by Alan Rockoff, MD, Jan 04, 2001 12:00AM
Paul:



What you describe sounds like paronychia, or inflammation of the tissues around the nail.  Causes include bacteria or yeats, though what makes them single out one nail in particular isn't clear.  Try using bacitracin and clotrimazole, once a day each (both OTC) for ten days.  Rub the creams in and leave them there.  If the condition worsens or fails to respond, a doctor should be able to help.  This problem is generally not contagious.



Best.



Dr. Rockoff
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