P
papilloma A general classification of tumors
arising from the epidermis (outer layer of the SKIN)
as well as the epithelial layer of the mucous mem-
branes. Warts, HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS(HPV) lesions
(also called condylomata or genital warts), and
POLYPSare papillomas. Though papillomas are non-
cancerous (benign), some types of papillomas,
notably intestinal polyps, are the foundation for
certain cancers. Doctors generally remove polyps
and treat HPV infections and lesions because these
are among the papillomas that can become can-
cerous. Many people prefer to have common
warts removed for cosmetic purposes. Irritation
such as from clothing that rubs or frequent
trauma can cause papillomas to bleed.
See also ACROCHORDON; ADENOCARCINOMA; ADE-
NOMA-TO-CARCINOMA TRANSITION; COLORECTAL CANCER;
INFECTION; LESION; WART.
papule A small, raised bump arising from the
epidermis that is distinctive and firm to the touch.
Papules may be discolored or the same color as the
surrounding SKIN. The presence of papules is a
symptom of many dermatologic and other health
conditions. Papules that cluster together form a
skin plaque, usually taking on a hardened, flaky
appearance.
See alsoMACULE; NODULE; PLAQUE, SKIN; PUSTULE.
paronychia INFLAMMATION and INFECTION of the
SKINthat surrounds the NAILS. Paronychia com-
monly occurs in people who bite their fingernails
or the skin around them or who have frequent
cuts around their fingernails. Paronychia is com-
mon in children who suck their thumbs or fingers.
Paronychia of a toenail may accompany an
ingrown toenail. Splinters, INSECT BITES AND STINGS,
and other injuries around the tips of the fingers or
toes can fester, allowing infection to creep under
the nail.
Paronychia can be acute (come on suddenly) or
chronic (persist or recur over a period of time).
Acute paronychia is generally painful and pustular
(produces pus). Staphylococcus aureus, a strain of
BACTERIAthat normally lives on the skin, is the
usual cause of the infection. Less commonly, a
strain of Streptococcusor Pseudomonas(bacteria), or
the FUNGUS (yeast) Candida albicans, may be the
culprit.
Symptoms of paronychia include redness,
swelling, PAIN, and occasionally bleeding or pus dis-
charge. The doctor can diagnosis paronychia based
on the symptoms and the history of their develop-
ment and occurrence. Treatment may include- warm soaks three to four times a day, keeping
the affected finger or toe dry at all other times - topical antibiotic or ANTIFUNGAL MEDICATION
- oral antibiotic or antifungal medication
Occasionally the doctor may need to lance
(make a sterile incision) the infected area to
release the pus collected within. The paronychia
generally heals within 7 to 10 days, though may
recur if related to behaviors or exposures that con-
tinue. Untreated paronychia becomes very painful
and may cause infection to spread into deeper tis-
sues, with the potential for permanent damage to
the nail as well as to tendons, ligaments, MUSCLE,
and BONE.
See alsoCELLULITIS; INGROWN NAIL; OSTEOMYELITIS;
WHITLOW.pediculosis Infestation with lice, parasites that
live on the SKINand feed by sucking BLOODthrough180