Red patch on thumb

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.  

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

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

[red594]

A related discussion, peeling thumb was started.