Nail Infections: Signs and Symptoms

• Pain at rest or when holding objects
• Green or yellow discoloration under the nails
• Oozing of foul-smelling fluid from under the nails
• Redness, swelling, or "pus pockets" around the nail

Treating Infections

Once changes in your nail occur, the risk of infection may increase, especially if the nails become loose there is any redness or swelling in the skin around the nails. Infections under and around the nails are more frequently caused by cetuximab, docetaxel, erlotinib lapatinib, paclitaxel, and panitumumab. So be sure to alert your health care team if, during treatment, you notice any signs of a nail infection. Using a topical antibiotic (Polysporin or mupirocin) or an antiseptic (povidone-iodine) ointment daily is a good way to fight off nail infections early on. If the infection is painful, your doctor may prescribe two-week course of oral antibiotics such as cephalexin or ciprofloxacin.