Infection of the Nails

The most common Infection of the Nails is caused by an organism called fungus. Fungal nail infections, or onychomycosis, tend to run in families because of an inherited tendency, but not everyone is susceptible.

Treatments include topical antifungal creams, lotions, gels, and lacquers, however, it is difficult for them to penetrate the nail.

Oral medicines like itraconazole, terbinafine, and fluconazole are used, and may require monitoring with blood tests. These new internal treatments are very safe when monitored by the dermatologist. In general, toe and fingernail fungus usually requires pills except in very mild cases.

Debridement or removing the infected part of the nail may enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. Dissolving or surgically removing the nail if the nail is thick and deformed may be helpful in a few situations, and used only if the infection is very severe.