Toenail onychomycosis: an important global disease burden.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Podiatry

Background:

• Onychomycosis is a common fungal nail infection with increasing prevalence.
• It affects 10% of the general population, rising to 50% in those over 70, and one-third of diabetics.
• Untreated onychomycosis can lead to further infections and complications, particularly in diabetic individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current challenges in onychomycosis diagnosis and treatment.
• To highlight the limitations of existing therapies, including oral and topical medications.
• To emphasize the need for novel, effective, and cost-efficient treatment and prevention strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of onychomycosis prevalence, risk factors, and treatment outcomes.
• Analysis of current therapeutic options, including oral antifungals and topical agents.
• Examination of complications and preventative care, especially in high-risk populations.

Main Results:

• Current treatments for onychomycosis have limited long-term success and high recurrence rates.
• Oral medications pose risks of adverse effects, while topical treatments are suitable only for mild cases.
• Treatment costs can be prohibitive, necessitating further research into alternative solutions.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial to prevent onychomycosis complications.
• Development of more effective and economical treatments for onychomycosis is warranted.
• Professional podiatry care is recommended for diabetic individuals to manage lower extremity complications.