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Published on: December 31, 2017
Onychomycosis in children. A review
Martha Patricia Solís-Arias1, Maria Teresa García-Romero1
1National Institute of Pediatrics, Insurgentes Sur 3700c, Col. Insurgentes Cuicuilco, Mexico City, Mexico.
Onychomycosis, a fungal nail infection, is uncommon in children but is rising. Dermatologists should consider it for nail changes in kids and confirm with mycological tests.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Onychomycosis, a fungal nail infection, is increasingly prevalent in older adults.
- It is rare in children, with exceptions for those with Down syndrome or immunodeficiencies.
- Epidemiological data on pediatric onychomycosis are limited but suggest a rising trend.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on pediatric onychomycosis.
- To summarize epidemiology, etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
- To highlight differences between childhood and adult onychomycosis.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of recent studies on pediatric onychomycosis.
- Synthesis of data regarding prevalence, causative agents, and clinical manifestations.
- Analysis of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, comparing pediatric and adult cases.
Main Results:
- Pediatric onychomycosis, though rare, shows an increasing prevalence.
- Specific pediatric populations (Down syndrome, immunodeficient) are at higher risk.
- Mycological confirmation is crucial for diagnosis in children with nail abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Dermatologists must include onychomycosis in the differential diagnosis for pediatric nail disorders.
- Prompt mycological examination is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
- Understanding age-specific differences is key for effective treatment strategies.
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