Which symptom might indicate a fungal infection in paronychia?

Nail separation is a key symptom that might indicate a fungal infection in paronychia. This condition, which involves inflammation of the tissue surrounding the nail, can be caused by various pathogens, including fungi. When a fungal infection is present, it can lead to the degradation of the nail matrix and separation of the nail from the nail bed, a process known as onycholysis. This allows for further infection and contributes to the overall clinical picture of a fungal paronychia.

While other symptoms like redness, swelling, and pain are common in paronychia, they are more indicative of generalized inflammation or infection rather than specifically pointing to a fungal etiology. It is the separation of the nail that more distinctly suggests the presence of a fungal agent at work, making it a significant clinical marker for this type of infection.