Nail fungus

Description of the disease

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a chronic infectious fungal infection that affects the nails of the hands or feet. It is not a life-threatening disease, but it can cause pain, discomfort, psychological, or social problems.

Causes of the disease

Nail fungus is caused by pathogenic fungi (dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds).

Symptoms

Initially, the nail loses its shine. Then the nail gradually yellows, hardens, and crumbles. The nail plate separates from the nail bed. Over time, the structure of the nail is destroyed, the nail becomes uneven, rough. Sometimes pain, discomfort may occur. Usually, the nails of the first and fifth toes are affected, rarely – all the nails of one hand or both feet (hands). If left untreated, it lasts a lifetime.

Forms of nail fungus

Distal;
Lateral;
Proximal subungual;
Superficial white;
Total dystrophic.

Diagnosis

Nail fungus is diagnosed based on clinical symptoms. For a more precise diagnosis, a culture is performed (a piece of the nail is taken and seeded into a special medium).

Treatment

Nail fungus is treated with antifungal agents: imidazole preparations (e.g., clotrimazole, isoconazole creams), allylamines (e.g., terbinafine cream). The affected area and the surrounding area of 1-3 cm are applied with the medication. Treatment lasts 2-6 weeks.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology