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Fungal nail infection

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Definition:

Fungal nail infection is an infection of the nails by a fungus.

Alternative Names:

Nails - fungal infection; Onychomycosis; Infection - fungal - nails

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body. Others may multiply rapidly and form infections. Fungi can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers.

Fungal infections include mold-like fungi that cause:

• Athlete's foot
• Jock itch
• Ringworm
• Tinea capitis

Fungal infections also include yeast-like fungi such as candida. Candida yeast infections include:

• Diaper rash
• Oral thrush
• Cutaneous candidiasis
• Some cases of genital rashes

Fungal nail infections are most often seen in adults. They often follow fungal infection of the feet. Fungal nail infections may be difficult to treat and may recur often. Toenails are affected more often than fingernails.

People who frequent public swimming pools, gyms, or shower rooms -- and people who perspire a great deal -- commonly have mold-like infections, because the fungi that cause them thrive in warm, moist areas.

The risk of getting a fungal infection is increased by closed-in footwear, prolonged moist skin, and minor skin or nail injuries.

• Review Date: 10/26/2006
• Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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