FUNGAL NAILS (ONYCHOMYCOSIS)
Fungus infections of the nails are very common and it appears that the incidence is increasing. Fungal toenails are the most common dermatological infection of the foot.
Onychomycosis is the number one disease treated by podiatrist in the United States and is seen in 20% of individuals 40 to 60 years of age, 32% in individuals between 40-70 years of age and 50% in those over 70.
Fungus is contagious to others and it can spread to other locations in the patients body. Most believe nail trauma and exposure to fungus (i.e. shoes, spas, and family members) are the cause. Some researchers believe there is a generic predisposition that causes some people to have an immune sensitivity to these infections.
The most common organism found in most infections is T.Rubrum. The disease is characterized by a thickening of the toenail, debris under the nail plate, lifting of the edge of the nail, color change and odor.
Although the condition is most often painless, cosmetically it can be ugly and embarrassing. Most people seek podiatric care for a solution.
The treatment for onychomycosis involves five basic options:
- Debridment (reduction of the nail thickness)
- Topical medications
- Surgical removal of infected toenail
- Oral medication
- New laser therapy
Debridment does not treat the infection. It will reduce the thickness and may improve the cosmetic appearance, but must be done monthly as the normal nail grows out about (2mm) a month. Fungal nails may grow at twice the rate.
Surgical removal and destruction of the root ( matrixectomy) may be effective at eliminating the infection, but may result in other problems as the end of the toe is now unprotected without a nail. Most patients do not choose these options as it cosmetically is unappealing.
Topical treatments are many, however, most have from 5-20% success rate. Although many pharmaceutical companies are in search of a good topical solution, it is not here yet.
Oral medications have been very effective, however, they all have poor safety profiles including cardiac, liver and kidney concern that require monthly blood testing and monitoring by a physician. There are also reinfection risks.
Laser therapy is the newest technology int he fight against the dreaded fungus infection. High powered pulse lasers that target the fungus with usually one treatment. It does not require anesthesia has a clinical efficacy of 88%.
Once fungus is cleared there are proactive prevention measures that are strongly advised:
- Proper hygiene
- Keeping the feet dry
- Inspecting between the toes
- Shower shoes for public areas
- Breathable shoes
- Anti-fungal shoe sprays
- U.V. light shoe trees also help kill fungus
- Not sharing pedicure instruments
- Bring your own polish to salons
- Avoid repetitive trauma (tight shoes, picking at nails)
Research is suggesting a 40% urea cream combined with an anti fungal cream is the best topical option for preventing reinfection.
