Related Experiment Videos
Abstract:
The authors studied in vitro and in vivo the invasion of the nail keratin by saprophytes. This invasion takes palce in the same way in both cases: mycelian filaments and spores penetrate in the hyponychium, filaments penetrate in the upper part of the tablet, filaments and, as far as some saprophytes are concerned, 'boring hyphae' penetrate in the lower part of the tablet. Those ways of invasion are responsible for the clinical pictures (onychomycosis, pachyonychia, leuconychomycosis). Electron microscopically the mycelian filaments appear to be both intercellular and intracellular. The authors insist in the importance of the criteria of evaluation which allow us to establish the saprophytic origin of onychomycosis.
Insights
Saprophytic fungi invade nail keratin through the hyponychium and nail plate, causing various onychomycosis clinical pictures. Understanding these invasion pathways is crucial for diagnosing fungal nail infections.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Context:
- Investigates the mechanisms of fungal nail invasion.
- Examines both in vitro and in vivo models of saprophyte interaction with nail keratin.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the pathways by which saprophytic fungi invade nail keratin.
- To correlate specific invasion routes with clinical presentations of onychomycosis.
Summary:
- Saprophytes invade nail keratin via hyponychium and nail plate penetration by mycelial filaments and spores.
- Electron microscopy reveals intercellular and intracellular invasion by mycelial filaments.
- Specific invasion patterns, including 'boring hyphae,' contribute to clinical conditions like onychomycosis, pachyonychia, and leuconychomycosis.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of diagnostic criteria for identifying saprophytic onychomycosis.
- Provides insights into the pathogenesis of fungal nail diseases.
- Informs clinical diagnosis and management strategies for onychomycosis.