Onychomycosis (also referred to as Dermatophytic Onychomycosis) is an infection of the nail caused by fungi. Most infections take hold in the toenails rather than the fingernails. A US study in 1997 indicated a prevalence of 7-10% and recent years have seen the emergence of new anti-fugal medications designed to treat the disease. FungusFacts.com has a series of nail fungus treatment reviews to assist those considering their treatment options.
The disease comes in a number of forms which the British Association of Dermatologists have defined into five main categories:
1.) Distal and Lateral Subungual Onychomycosis
This refers to infections of the top edge and lateral edges of the nail that can also travel underneath the nail (i.e. a subungual position). In some instances the infection remains on one side of the nail but tends to be progressive and spread to cover the whole nail over a period of time. Texture changes, discoloration and thickening of the nail often result.
2.) Superficial White Onychomycosis
This is less common than the previous category and is more superficial in nature. With this condition the color change is white rather than yellow and the nail surface is commonly flaky.
3) Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis
This is a rare form of nail fungus infection that can affect patients with a suppressed immune system.
4) Candidal Onychomycosis
This relates to the infection of the nail with Candida yeasts (yeast is the spore form of fungus). This form of the disease is less common and has similar characteristics to Distal and Lateral Subungual Onychomycosis.
5) Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis
All forms of nail fungus infections are progressive and can eventually reach a stage where the nail is destroyed. Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis refers to this condition.
If you suspect a nail fungus infection it is important to discuss your symptoms with a doctor. Despite that fact that around half of all nail disorders are caused by fungus, it is important to receive a definite diagnosis before undergoing a treatment regime.
