Fungi are microorganisms that are extremely diverse and are found everywhere. Fungal infection causes the production of exfoliation. Exfoliation may or may not be accompanied by erythema, blisters and ringworm-like plaques.
The fungi that commonly affect the nails and skin are called dermatophytes. Fungal infections of the skin and nails are caused when they are exposed to dermatophyte fungi for a long time and when they find the right conditions (increased temperature, humidity) and multiply vigorously.
Specifically, onychomycosis is the infestation and infection of the nail plate. It can be caused by three categories of fungi, dermatophytes, yeasts (Candida species) and filamentous fungi that are not dermatophytes.
WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW
We recognise an infected nail by the following:
- It is white, yellow or brown in colour
- Changes shape, becomes thicker
- Becomes brittle and crumbles easily
- Has an unpleasant odor
Fungal infections on the nails are transmitted through skin contact, the use of contaminated objects such as combs, towels, etc., direct contact with infected animals (cats, dogs, cattle, horses or wild animals), the sea or swimming pool, due to the humidity that favours the growth of fungi.
In contrast, fungal infections on the skin present a different clinical picture, depending on the type of fungus. The main symptoms of a fungal infection on the skin are usually itching, slight burning, redness, peeling (flaking). Later, depending on the cause, irritation or soreness between the fingers, and dryness and thickening often occur on the soles of the feet and heels. Plaque (skin sloughing) erythematous, clearly excoriated from the surrounding healthy skin, with central healing and peripheral scaling usually on exposed parts, with or without itching, erythema with mild scaling between the last toes, broken hairs on the scalp, cracks, scales, peeling are the most common pictures of a fungal infection.
THERAPY
The topical medications (in the form of cream, ointment, lotion, powder, etc.) used belong to three main categories: azoles, allylamines and cyclolypyridinones. Other topically administered drugs are amorolfine, haloprogine and tolnaftate.
Oral antifungal medicines should always be given on prescription and under the supervision of a doctor, because of their possible side effects and interactions with other medicines.
Nails are difficult targets for antifungal drugs. Treatment of onychomycoses is often difficult and time-consuming. The patient must be fully compliant for treatment to succeed.
Source : www.edae.gr
