Fingernail onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the finger nails. Dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds are responsible for onychomycosis. Toenail onychomycosis is the most difficult superficial fungal infections to cure. The worldwide incidence and prevalence range from 2% to 13% based on the location. It is a cosmetic issue rather than a medical problem. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails that causes discoloration, thickening, and separation from the nail bed.
It general occurs in 10% of the population, 20% of persons older than 60 years, and 50% of those older than 70 years. The increased prevalence in older adults is related to peripheral vascular disease, immunologic disorders and diabetes mellitus. The risk of onychomycosis is 1.9 to 2.8 times higher in diabetic patients as compared to general population. It affects toenails more often than fingernails. It is a cosmetic…
