Infection

Term: Infection

Definition (plain English):
An infection occurs when harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites enter the body and cause illness.

Examples:

• Local: nail infections such as onychomycosis (fungal) or paronychia (bacterial).
• Systemic: widespread infections like sepsis or tuberculosis.

How it relates to nails:
Local infections directly damage the nail or surrounding skin. Systemic infections can disrupt nail growth, leaving ridges, lines, or discolouration.

Confusable with:
Changes from trauma or inflammatory conditions (e.g., psoriasis) that can look like infection.

Disclaimer:
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a diagnosis. Always seek medical advice if you are concerned.