Onychomycosis
Onychomycosis Causes
The cause pathogens of onychomycosis include dermatophytes, Candida, and non-dermatophytic moulds. Dermatophytes are the fungi commonly responsible for onychomycosis in the temperate western countries; While, Candida and non-dermatophytic moulds are more frequently involved in the tropics and subtropics with a hot and humid climate.
Onychomycosis Definition
Onychomycosis means fungal infection of the nail. It is the very common disease of the nails and constitutes about a half of all nail abnormalities. This condition can affect toe- or fingernails, but toenail infections are particularly common. The prevalence of onychomycosis is about 6-8% in the adult population. Onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes is also called as tinea unguium (tinea of the nails).
Onychomycosis Diagnosis
If all nails are affected then fungal infection is improbable. To avoid misdiagnosis as psoriasis, lichen planus, contact dermatitis, trauma, nail bed tumor or yellow nail syndrome, laboratory confirmation would be necessary. The three main practices are potassium hydroxide smear, culture and histology.
Onychomycosis Symptoms and Signs
The nail plate may have a thickened, yellow, or cloudy appearance. The nails could become rough and crumbly, or can separate from the nail bed. Usually there is no pain or other bodily symptoms, unless the disease is severe.
Onychomycosis Treatment
Treatment of onychomycosis is challenging because the infection is embedded within the nail and is difficult to reach. As a result full removal of symptoms is so slow and may take a year or more.
Drugs used for treatment of Onychomycosis
Sporanox