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Light treatments of nail fungal infections
Jessica Houang1, Gabriel Perrone2, Damia Mawad3,4,5
1Biomedical Engineering, School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Abstract:
Nail fungal infections are notoriously persistent and difficult to treat which can lead to severe health impacts, particularly in the immunocompromized. Current antifungal treatments, including systemic and topical drugs, are prolonged and do not effectively provide a complete cure. Severe side effects are also associated with systemic antifungals, such as hepatotoxicity. Light treatments of onychomycosis are an emerging therapy that has localized photodynamic, photothermal or photoablative action. These treatments have shown to be an effective alternative to traditional antifungal remedies with comparable or better cure rates achieved in shorter times and without systemic side effects. This report reviews significant clinical and experimental studies in the field, highlighting mechanisms of action and major effects related to light therapy; in particular, the impact of light on fungal genetics.
Insights
Light therapy offers a promising alternative for treating stubborn nail fungal infections (onychomycosis). This approach provides effective cure rates with fewer side effects compared to traditional antifungal drugs.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Photomedicine
Background:
- Nail fungal infections (onychomycosis) are persistent and challenging to treat.
- Current antifungal treatments have limitations, including prolonged duration, incomplete cure rates, and severe side effects like hepatotoxicity.
- Emerging light-based therapies offer a localized treatment approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical and experimental studies on light therapy for onychomycosis.
- To highlight the mechanisms of action and effects of light treatments.
- To investigate the impact of light on fungal genetics.
Main Methods:
- Review of significant clinical and experimental studies.
- Analysis of photodynamic, photothermal, and photoablative light actions.
- Examination of treatment outcomes and side effect profiles.
Main Results:
- Light therapy demonstrates comparable or superior cure rates to traditional antifungals.
- Treatments are achieved in shorter durations.
- Light therapy avoids systemic side effects associated with oral antifungal medications.
Conclusions:
- Light therapy is an effective and safe alternative for onychomycosis treatment.
- Further research into light's impact on fungal genetics may optimize therapeutic strategies.
- Localized light treatments present a significant advancement in managing nail fungal infections.
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