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Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery

Written by Dr. Ringpfeil

Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)

nail fungus

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail. Either fingernails or toenails can be affected but the condition is more commonly seen in the toenails. People become aware of the condition because of the altered appearance of the nail or multiple nails. The nail can become yellowed, crumbly, thickened, lifted up from the nail bed or debris can be seen beneath the nail.

DIAGNOSIS

A definitive diagnosis is made by clipping a portion of the affected nail and sending it to the lab for analysis. Other clues to the diagnosis include rash on the feet or between the toes consistent with athlete's foot (tinea pedis). Longstanding athlete's foot infection can put individuals at risk for toenail fungus. Fungal infection of the skin of the hands (tinea manuum) can also be associated with onychomycosis of the fingernails.

TREATMENT

One of the most efficacious treatment options is treatment with an oral antifungal medication such as Lamisil. Fungal infection of the toenails requires treatment for a period of three months; fungal infection of the fingernails requires treatment for six weeks. Since the oral antifungals are metabolized through the liver, blood test monitoring of liver function is recommended when treatment for more than six weeks is required.

Another promising treatment alternative with a high percentage of effectiveness is treatment with the PinPointe laser. This laser can be found at some podiatrists' offices.

Topical treatment with antifungal solutions and creams is also available but treatment success is low and daily treatment for many months is required.

All treatments are hampered by the high recurrence rate for fungal nail infection. Even if treatment protocols are strictly followed and nail fungus is eradicated, there is a good chance that the problem will recur.

COPING

The dystrophic appearance of toenails infected with fungus can be improved through the use of topical keratolytics such as urea and by having the thickened nails filed down professionally by a podiatrist.

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What WE DID WELL

(Answers:674)

frendliness of entire staff doc is terrific

#12023-02-24

The reception was warm and welcoming. I felt like I had been here before and it was the first time.

#22022-07-01

location conveinent

#32022-10-20

everything was wonderful.

#42022-11-30

New options! Every dermatologist I've gone to says and does the same things. I'm happy to be trying something new since those other methods didn't work.

#52011-05-19 10:14:50

as a man and coming in to see a doctor is usually awkward especially a female doctor to look over your entire body. The staff made me feel very comfortable and relaxed. Thanks so much.

#62023-03-12

Friendly, clean, and helpful.

#72010-11-29 14:01:40

The freindliness of the staff!

#82011-06-01 13:35:16

Excellent staff who seem to like what they are doing! (A rarity in many offices!)

#92011-11-17 12:08:50

THE DOCTOR WAS GREAT. REALLY EXPLAINED THINGS WELL AND LISTENED TO MY CONCERNS.

#102022-10-29

What can we do better?

(answers:373)

I was a bit embarressed by not knowing more information regarding my parents history. I believe it would have been better handled if I were asked to please get more info and then let the dr's office know.

#12022-06-28

Don't change anything

#22023-02-01

n/a

#32022-04-02

can't think of anything

#42011-12-12 10:13:47

Keep up the thinks you are doing....

#52022-06-21

clear directions to facility

#62022-11-23

couldnt be any better

#72022-10-01

please change the paintings in the reception area....

#82011-02-02 11:01:42

Keep doing what you are doing!

#92023-01-13

no complaints. everything was fine.

#102022-10-09

Customer Rating : 4.6

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