OnychomycosisOnychomycosis (also known as Dermatophytic onychomycosis, Tinea unguium or Ringworm of the nail) is a fungal infection that affects toenails - and sometimes fingernails. It is responsible for about 50% of all nail abnormalities - and its incidence is increasing. Children rarely get fungal nail infections. Men get them more often than women and usually after the age of 40. As many as 90% of elderly people get them. The infection is progressive, recurring, contagious, can spread from one part of the body to another and from one susceptible person to another.
Who is susceptible to getting Onychomychosis?Diabetics, the elderly and those with HIV or immunodeficiency syndrome have a greater tendency toward fungal nail infections. For these cases, fungal nail infections are considered controllable, not curable. The fungus is transferred through direct or by contact with infected shoes, towels, clothing, etc. The fungi that cause athletes foot, ringworm or jock itch readily spread to other body parts, including toes and nails, unless precautions are taken. Types and subtypes of Fungal Nail Infections• DLSO (Distal lateral subungual O.) - most common form....spreads from skin to the underside of the nail, creating inflammation. • WSO (White superficial O.) - rare.....caused when fungi directly invade the surface of the nail plate and then infect the nail bed. • PSO (Proximal subungual O.) - least common subtype.....invades the cuticle around the nail and then penetrates the nail plate. • EO (Endonyx O.) Like DLSO. fungi reach the nail via the skin. Instead of infecting the nail bed, the fungi immediately invade the nail plate. • CO (Candidal O.) - (caused by the yeast, candida) is different from infections related to other fungal infections. a.) Onycholysis - the nail separates from the nail bed. b.) Chronic mucocutaneous affects mucous membranes and regular skin, involves the nail plate and eventually the skin fold behind the cuticle (a.k.a nail fold) • Total dystrophic onychomycosis is the most advanced form of any of the above types. It involves the entire nail unit. Problems and possible complications• Pain • Limited mobility • Possible triggering of ecurrent cellulitis and thrombophlebitis. • Diabetics may experience secondary bacterial infections promoting foot ulcers and gangrene. • Even without complications, fungal nail infections can cause embarrassment and loss of self esteem. There are rarely any symptoms of Onychomychosis. Most people seek treatment for nail infections for cosmetic reasons as the nail or nails start to look odd and unappealing. While not life-threatening, fungal nail infections can be painful or cause disfigurement and serious physical and/or occupational limitations. Psychological, social and emotional effects may significantly impact quality of life. Click here to ask a question about onychomycosis. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Albert Einstein
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