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Toenail onychomycosis in Estonia.
1Department of Clinical Microbiology, United Laboratories, Tartu University Clinics. helle.jarv@kliinikum.ee
Mycoses
|March 5, 2004
Summary
This study investigated toenail onychomycosis in Estonia, finding that clinical diagnosis was confirmed in 69% of patients. Estonian patients often present with advanced fungal nail infections, indicated by multiple affected nails and mixed pathogen types.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Public Health
Background:
- Toenail onychomycosis is a common fungal infection.
- Understanding regional variations in clinical presentation and causative agents is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate clinical features, predisposing factors, and pathogens of toenail onychomycosis in Estonia.
- To compare the stage of Estonian onychomycosis cases with those in other European countries.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 436 dermatological patients with suspected toenail onychomycosis.
- Clinical examination, patient interviews, and mycological analysis (culture) for pathogen identification.
Main Results:
- Onychomycosis diagnosis confirmed in 69% of cases by mycological analysis.
- Common symptoms included nail discoloration, brittleness, and hyperkeratosis.
- Dermatophytes were the most frequent pathogens (78%), with Trichophyton rubrum being the most common. Mixed infections occurred in 6% of cases.
- Infection severity, indicated by the number of affected nails, correlated positively with patient age.
Conclusions:
- Estonian patients often present with advanced toenail onychomycosis, characterized by multiple infected nails and mixed infections.
- The findings suggest a need for targeted public health initiatives and treatment strategies in Estonia.