Onychomycosis, or nail fungus, is a fungal infection that affects the nails. This article provides a straightforward overview of the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of tinea unguium.
Causes:
The most common causes of tinea unguium are dermatophytes, including Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Epidermophyton floccosum.
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Indirect contact with infected surfaces: Spores can be transmitted from infected individuals or contaminated surfaces, such as shower floors, swimming pools, and communal areas.
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A fungal infection can enter the nail plate through trauma or injury to the surrounding skin.
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Wearing tight-fitting shoes or keeping the nails damp for extended periods can increase the risk of fungal nail infections.
Symptoms:
The following symptoms are commonly associated with tinea unguium:
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Symptoms include thickened nails, which may become brittle, discolored (yellow or brown), or crumbly.
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Yellowish or white patches or streaks may appear on the surface of the nails, often starting at the edges and progressing to the center.
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Infections can lead to changes in nail shape, such as distortion, lifting (onycholysis), or separation of the nail from the nail bed.
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Fungal nail infections may cause discomfort or pain around the nails, particularly when pressure or manipulation is applied.
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In cases of severe or advanced infection, fungal nail infections may produce a foul odor.
Diagnosis:
Tinea unguium is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Diagnostic procedures may include:
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A healthcare provider will examine the nails closely, looking for characteristic signs of fungal infection such as discoloration, thickening, or deformity.
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Samples of affected nail material can be collected with a sterile instrument and examined under a microscope or cultured in a laboratory to identify fungal growth.
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In the diagnosis of fungal nail infections, dermoscopy, a noninvasive imaging technique, can be used to visualize subtle changes in nail morphology.
Treatment:
An effective treatment for tinea unguium involves eradicating the fungus and restoring the nail's health. Treatment options include:
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To inhibit fungal growth, antifungal nail lacquers or creams containing ciclopirox or amorolfine may be applied directly to the affected nails.
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To achieve higher concentrations of medication in the nails, oral antifungal medications, such as terbinafine or itraconazole, may be prescribed for severe or resistant fungal nail infections.
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Fungal nail infections that are severe or recurrent may require surgical removal of the affected nail (debridement) or laser therapy.
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Use over-the-counter antifungal nail treatments, apply tea tree oil, or soak the affected nails in vinegar or diluted bleach solutions for relief from fungal nail infections.
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To prevent recurrence, maintenance therapy with topical antifungal medications or periodic oral antifungal courses may be recommended after successful treatment of fungal nail infections.
Prevention:
Tinea unguium can be prevented by following good nail hygiene practices and minimizing exposure to fungal sources. Prevention strategies include:
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Infections caused by fungus can be prevented by regularly washing and drying the hands and feet thoroughly after exposure to water or moisture.
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By trimming nails straight across and avoiding tight-fitting shoes or nail polish, you can prevent trauma and fungal nail infections.
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In communal areas such as swimming pools or locker rooms, wearing breathable shoes and socks can help reduce the risk of fungal transmission.
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To minimize the risk of spreading fungal nail infections, do not share towels, nail clippers, or footwear with others.
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The early recognition and treatment of fungal nail infections can prevent the spread of infection to other nails or individuals and minimize the risk of complications.
