Fungal infection of fingernails (also known as onychomycosis) is caused by two groups of fungi: yeasts, and moulds, which is Norse for "fuzzy." Fungi are organisms lacking chlorophyll. They thrive in moist, dark environments. Dermatophytes ("skin plants") are the culprit in the majority of cases. These same organisms cause athlete's foot.
Prevalence
It is estimated that 2 to 5 percent of the U.S. population has fingernail fungus. According to the Doctor Fungus website, it occurs twice as often in men than in women and increases with age. Fingernail fungal infection is not only a cosmetic problem, but also may be painful, hindering sufferers from picking up or holding objects. Individuals with fingernail fungus may not be hired for food handling jobs or jobs requiring contact with other people.
Description
Fingernail fungal infection is acquired by minor trauma. Infection begins under the fingernail and extends downwards, spreading to the entire nail. Typically, it causes yellowish or brownish nail discoloration, debris accumulation under the nail and detachment of the nail plate from the nail bed (where the nail meets the skin). As a result, nails thicken, break easily and crumble. According to Roberts, in the "British Journal of Dermatology," fingernail fungal infection is less common (10 to 20 percent of patients) than toenail fungal infection (80 to 90 percent of patients). Both fingernails and toenails may be infected in some patients.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for fingernail fungus include immersion of the hands in water for extensive times during housework or at work. In addition, people who have had past episodes of fingernail fungus are likely to have recurrent infections.
Standard Treatment
According to Doctor Fungus, standard treatment consists of oral antifungal agents--itraconazole or terbinafine. It is easier to treat fingernails than toenails, because fingernails grow faster. Topical medicines may also be used to treat fungal nail infections. For example, Penlac Nail lacquer,or ciclopirox 8 percent, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration. It is applied once a day. However, topical medications are not as effective as oral medicines in curing fungal nail infections. With Penlac, fingernails may clear within 6 months, or longer. Ask your doctor about side effects and contraindications and if you are a candidate to take these medications.
Prevention/Solution
To minimize risk of fingernail fungus, while washing dishes and doing other household chores, wear gloves, and dry the gloves inside-out. Also, limit use of nail polish and artificial nails, which can create optimal conditions for fungi to grow.
References
- "British Journal of Dermatology"; D. T. Roberts: 1992; 126 (Suppl 39):23-27
- Doctor Fungus: The Official Website of the Mycoses Study Group
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