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Onychomycosis in inflammatory bowel diseases
D Gaburri1, J M F Chebli, A Zanine
1Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Dermatology, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Center, University Hospital of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, University of Juiz de Fora School of Medicine, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Summary
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients have a significantly higher prevalence of onychomycosis (nail fungal infection) compared to those without IBD. Older age and leukopenia were identified as risk factors in IBD patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Gastroenterology
- Mycology
Background:
- No prior studies evaluated onychomycosis prevalence in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients.
- IBD is associated with immunological disturbances, suggesting a potential link to nail infections.
- Investigating this association and risk factors is relevant for IBD patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of onychomycosis in patients with IBD.
- To identify potential risk factors for onychomycosis in IBD patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case-control study was conducted.
- 141 IBD patients and 100 non-IBD controls were recruited.
- Direct microscopy and fungal cultures were used to diagnose onychomycosis.
Main Results:
- Onychomycosis incidence was significantly higher in IBD patients (14.9%) versus controls (6%).
- Risk factors included older age and leukopenia in patients on azathioprine therapy.
- Dermatophytes were the most common causative agents (76.2%).
Conclusions:
- IBD patients exhibit a markedly high prevalence of onychomycosis.
- IBD should be considered an underlying condition increasing the risk of fungal nail infections.
- Further research may explore the immunological links and specific management strategies.
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