Emerging therapies for the treatment of ungual onychomycosis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Onychomycosis is a prevalent fungal nail infection impacting 2-8% of the global population.
• Individuals with diabetes, peripheral vascular diseases, or compromised immunity face more complex fungal infections.
• Understanding the specific fungal agents (dermatophytes, yeasts, molds) and infection location is crucial for treatment classification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current therapeutic options for onychomycosis, including traditional and device-based treatments.
• To identify and discuss the limitations associated with existing onychomycosis therapies.
• To highlight the need for a deeper understanding of the disease's pathophysiology and drug pharmacokinetics within the nail apparatus.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of available onychomycosis treatments.
• Classification of therapies based on infection site (fingers/toes) and causative agents.
• Analysis of treatment success rates and limitations.

Main Results:

• Topical nail products demonstrate minimal success rates in treating onychomycosis.
• Existing therapies often fall short due to incomplete understanding of the disease process.
• Limited clinical pharmacokinetic data for drugs in infected nail structures contributes to treatment challenges.

Conclusions:

• The low efficacy of current topical treatments necessitates further research into onychomycosis.
• A comprehensive understanding of onychomycosis pathophysiology is essential for developing effective therapies.
• Improved clinical pharmacokinetic data is critical for optimizing drug delivery and efficacy in nail infections.