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Scanning electron microscope imaging of onychomycosis
William P Scherer1, Michael David Scherer
1College of Dental Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|July 22, 2004
Summary
Scanning electron microscopy reveals the deep penetration of Trichophyton rubrum in geriatric toenails, explaining treatment challenges. This offers new insights into chronic fungal nail infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Onychomycosis, a toenail fungal infection, is common in the elderly.
- Trichophyton rubrum is a frequent cause of onychomycosis.
- High-resolution imaging of geriatric onychomycosis is lacking.
Observation:
- Three-dimensional scanning electron microscopy images were generated from two geriatric patients with T. rubrum toenail infections.
- Images captured the intricate structure and penetration of fungal hyphae within the toenail.
Findings:
- The study visualized the pervasive integration and penetration of T. rubrum hyphal elements in chronic onychomycosis.
- Microscopic evidence highlights the difficulty in eradicating fungal infections from the subungual space.
Implications:
- Scanning electron microscopy provides valuable insights into the spatial orientation and behavior of fungal pathogens in nail infections.
- Understanding fungal invasion patterns can inform future research on treatment strategies for difficult-to-treat onychomycosis.