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Fungal melanonychia.
Justin Finch1, Roberto Arenas, Robert Baran
1Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA. finch@uchc.edu
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|January 20, 2012
Summary
Fungal melanonychia, a rare nail infection causing dark pigmentation, is increasingly linked to diverse fungi. These infections can mimic melanoma and resist standard treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Nail Biology
Background:
- Fungal melanonychia is a rare nail disorder characterized by brown-to-black pigmentation of the nail unit.
- It results from nail infections caused by various fungal species.
- The condition can clinically resemble subungual melanoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on fungal melanonychia.
- To discuss the increasing number of fungal species implicated in this condition.
- To explore the role of fungal melanin in nail infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of fungal melanonychia.
- Analysis of etiologic agents, including dematiaceous and nondematiaceous fungi.
- Discussion of clinical presentation and treatment challenges.
Main Results:
- Over 21 species of dematiaceous fungi and at least 8 species of nondematiaceous fungi are implicated.
- Fungal melanonychia often presents with pigmentation mimicking subungual melanoma.
- Traditional antifungal therapies are frequently ineffective.
Conclusions:
- Fungal melanonychia is an emerging concern with a growing list of causative fungal agents.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial due to its potential to mimic melanoma.
- Further research into effective treatments is warranted.
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