Paronychia refers to which condition?

Paronychia is a condition characterized specifically by the inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding the nail plate, which is exactly what option C describes. This condition can involve redness, swelling, and pain around the nail area. It typically arises from bacteria or yeast entering through breaks in the skin, often due to trauma or frequent hand washing, which can compromise the skin's integrity. Understanding paronychia is essential for nail technicians as it directly relates to nail care and the health of the surrounding skin. Recognizing it allows for appropriate referrals to healthcare providers or specific care practices to prevent worsening the condition.

The other options portray different conditions that do not accurately capture the definition of paronychia. Option A describes an infection of the nail bed itself but does not focus on the surrounding tissue. Option B refers to a fungal infection of the nail, which is a separate entity known as onychomycosis. Finally, option D focuses on inflammation of the nail matrix, which is related to nail growth issues rather than surrounding soft tissue infections.