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