$Unique_ID{BRK01416}
$Pretitle{Infections or Parasites, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{Have You Ever Heard of Painful Fingers and Green Fingernails?}
$Subject{nails green fungus}
$Volume{A-20, A-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Have You Ever Heard of Painful Fingers and Green Fingernails?


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QUESTION:  Here is a very peculiar situation for you to solve.  Have you ever
heard of anyone suffering from painful fingers and green fingernails?  Sounds
weird doesn't it but I assure you that is my problem.  Some nails are only
partially colored but all my fingers hurt.  Can you help me?

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ANSWER:  You are not the first to suffer with this "green nail" affliction,
which seems to occur more frequently in women.  However anyone whose
occupation demands prolonged exposure of the hands to soap, hot water and
detergents may develop the problem.  It is caused by the growth of a bacteria
in the tissue that forms the nails, either Pseudomonas aeruginosa or some
species of Aspergillus.  These microorganisms produce a green pigment, which
discolors the nail.  A positive diagnosis may be made by culturing either
infected material that may lie below the nail, or by shaving off small
portions of the colored nail.  The bacteria may then be identified, and an
appropriate antibiotic, such as polymyxin or neomycin applied to the affected
areas.  The good news is that you can wipe out the infection with proper
treatment, and the pain will disappear with the bacteria.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
