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Concept
Onychomycosis
Summary
Onychomycosis, also known as tinea unguium, is a fungal infection of the nail. Symptoms may include white or yellow nail discoloration, thickening of the nail, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. Toenails or fingernails may be affected, but it is more common for toenails. Complications may include cellulitis of the lower leg.
A number of different types of fungus can cause onychomycosis, including dermatophytes and Fusarium. Risk factors include athlete's foot, other nail diseases, exposure to someone with the condition, peripheral vascular disease, and poor immune function. The diagnosis is generally suspected based on the appearance and confirmed by laboratory testing.
Onychomycosis does not necessarily require treatment. The antifungal medication terbinafine taken by mouth appears to be the most effective but is associated with liver problems. Trimming the affected nails when on treatment also appears useful.
There is a ciclopirox-containing nail polish, but there is no evidence that it works. The condition returns in up to half of cases following treatment. Not using old shoes after treatment may decrease the risk of recurrence.
Treatment:
Topical antifungal medications: Mild to moderate cases of onychomycosis may be treated with over-the-counter or prescription antifungal creams, ointments, or nail lacquers. These are applied directly to the affected nails.
Oral antifungal medications: For more severe or resistant cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. These medications work systemically to eliminate the fungal infection. However, they may have potential side effects and require monitoring by a healthcare professional.
Nail debridement: In some cases, the healthcare provider may trim, file, or remove the infected parts of the nail to reduce the fungal load and enhance the effectiveness of topical or oral treatments.
Laser therapy: Laser treatment is a newer option for onychomycosis. It uses specific wavelengths of light to target and destroy the fungi in the nails.
Official source
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