Symptoms

Symptoms of nail fungus include discolored, brittle and thickened nails that may separate from their nail bed. The fungus may infect the entire structure of the nail, turning the nail yellow or brown. In advanced cases, the nail may have an unpleasant odor.

Localization

Nail fungus often occurs on the toenails, but can also occur on the fingernails.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of nail fungus is based on clinical examination of the nail and fungal culture. A fungal culture is required to identify the fungal strain and determine what type of treatment is most appropriate.

Therapy

Treatment of nail fungus includes topical or oral antifungal agents, nail polishes, and occasionally surgical procedures. Effective treatment requires patience, as complete healing of the nail can often take several months to a year.

Course

Nail fungus can lead to permanent loss of the nail if not treated. It can also lead to other complications, including infections in the surrounding tissues.

Prognosis

Prognosis depends on the severity of the infection. Early diagnosis and treatment leads to a better prognosis.

Frequency

Nail fungus is a common condition, affecting up to 10% of the population.

Risk factors

Risk factors for nail fungus include weakened immunity, diabetes, circulatory problems, humidity, and age.

Prevention

Prevention of nail fungus includes wearing breathable shoes and socks, drying feet after bathing or swimming, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools and locker rooms.

Pathogenesis

Nail fungus is caused by fungi that can grow and spread in moist, warm environments.

Classification

There are several types of nail fungus that can be classified depending on the strain of fungus involved. These include dermatophytes, yeast and molds.

Stage classification

There are different stages of nail fungus depending on the severity of the infection. These stages include from mild infections, where the nail is only slightly altered, to severe infections, where the nail is thickened and deformed and may detach from the nail bed.

Similar diseases

There are some similar conditions that can resemble nail fungus in appearance, such as psoriatic nail and bacterial infections.