Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis (tinea unguium) is dermatophyte infection of nail plate/bed. Onychomycosis = dermatophyte/yeast/non-dermatophyte nail infection. Two types: (1) white superficial onychomycosis (limited to nail surface/tip); (2) subungual (distal lateral/proximal/subungual white).

Common Symptoms

Station doctor; black nail; ear pinna tinea; nail groove; soft/deformed nail

Causes and Pathogenesis

T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, E. floccosum; also T. violaceum, T. tonsurans, T. concentricum. White superficial usually T. mentagrophytes, occasionally Cephalosporium/Fusarium/Aspergillus. Onychomycosis in malnourished nails; C. albicans and Scopulariopsis confirmed; C. parapsilosis etc. Personal factors: poor hygiene, tight clothing, occlusive shoes, elderly. Usually from tinea pedis; can self-inoculate or transmit to others. Onychomycosis = reservoir for dermatophytes; secondary bacterial infection; social/employment/self-esteem impact. Spread by handshakes/currency/handrails/phones.

Treatment

Drug therapy, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

Avoid shared footwear/towels; no barefoot in pools/baths/saunas/gyms. Dry skin; powder; change socks; breathable footwear; reduce hot/humid work; treat existing tinea.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.