What condition is characterized by inflammation around the nail?

The condition characterized by inflammation around the nail is paronychia. This condition typically arises from an infection that may be caused by bacteria or fungi, resulting in swelling, redness, and tenderness in the soft tissue surrounding the nail. Paronychia can occur after trauma to the nail area or from excessive moisture, which allows pathogens to enter and cause inflammation.

In contrast, onychocryptosis, commonly known as an ingrown nail, involves the nail growing into the skin rather than just inflammation around it. Onychomycosis refers to a fungal infection of the nail itself, affecting the nail plate rather than the surrounding tissue. A hangnail, while it can be painful, is a small tear in the skin alongside the nail and does not typically involve inflammation of the surrounding area to the same extent. Thus, paronychia is the most accurate description of inflammation around the nail itself.