Nail Fungus
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition affecting the fingernails and toenails. It is, however, more common on toenails. Onychomycosis is caused by fungus that may come from animals, soil, or other people.
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition affecting the fingernails and toenails. It is, however, more common on toenails. Onychomycosis is caused by fungus that may come from animals, soil, or other people.
How does one know if one has nail fungus?
Brittleness and discoloration are the main manifestation of nail fungus.
Who are at risk?
Nail fungus occurs in 25% of people at age of 40, and in 40% of older people. It may run in families because of an inherited tendency, but not everyone is susceptible. People who indulge in outdoor sports, gardening, and pedicures dine in the salon may develop nail fungus.
The fungal infection of the nails is also important in people who have other diseases such as diabetes, HIV, AIDS, and cancer. These individuals are immunocompromised, which means that their immune system is put in danger. They should be screened regularly for fungal nail problems.
What happens when you have nail fungus?
¯ Fungus that may come from animals, soil, pr other people
¯ Enters the nail plate
¯ Multiple in the area
¯ If this is left untreated, the fungus can affect the entire nail plate
¯ Results in brittleness and discoloration
How is nail fungus diagnosed?
A dermatologist may take samples from the nail in order to properly identify and treat the problem. A scraping of the nail is treated with a chemical called potassium hydroxide (KOH), which allows it to be examined under the microscope. Sometimes, the scrapings from under the nail can be used to culture the material, to see what is growing and to identify it. A piece of nail may be sent to a laboratory as a biopsy where a PAS test helps identify fungal strands. Other conditions such as nail psoriasis or allergic reactions to acrylic nails or nail polish may look like fungal infection, but they are not. These tests help make the proper diagnosis.
What are the available treatment options?
Topical antifungal creams, lotions, gels ad lacquers, similar to nail polish, may be used. However, it is difficult for these to truly penetrate the nail.
Oral medicines like itraconazole, terbinafine, and fluconazole are used, and may require monitoring with blood tests. They are usually avoided in patients with a history of liver problems such as hepatitis, and are not given to pregnant or nursing women. These medicines are safe when monitored by a dermatologist. In general, toe and fingernail fungus require pills except in very mild cases.
What are the possible complications if you have nail fungus?
If left untreated, nail fungus may affect all fingernails and toenails. The nails will be brittle and nay crumble. In people with decreased immunity, the disease may be recurrent.
How can The Medical City help you?
At The Medical City, we have a complete roster of competent dermatologist for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment. For further inquiries or if you want to seek consult, please call:
CENTER FOR WELLNESS AND AESTHETICS
Monday-Sunday, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM
Tel. No.: (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 ext. 6576
CENTER FOR PATIENT PARTNERSHIP
Tel. No.: (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 ext. 6444
References:
- TMC Department of Medicine – Section of Dermatology
- Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine
Note: This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advise, diagnosis or treatment. If you or someone you know have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable to seek professional help.
Share
