The inflammation of the skin at the bases of the nails would most likely be associated with which event?

• A. Trauma
• B. Bacterial infection
• C. Fungal infection
• D. Allergic reaction

Answer: (A)

Inflammation around the bases of the nails is most often linked to trauma to the nail folds or cuticle. A simple injury from manicuring, a hangnail, or a pinch can damage the protective skin there, prompting redness, swelling, and tenderness—the body’s immediate inflammatory response. Trauma also creates an opening for microbes, which can lead to infection if present, but the initiating event is the mechanical injury to the skin around the nail. Bacterial or fungal infections can follow, and allergic reactions can cause irritation around the nails as well, but they are less likely to be the direct initiating event compared to trauma.