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Nondermatophyte mould onychomycosis
A K Gupta1,2, R C Summerbell3,4, M Venkataraman1
1Mediprobe Research Inc., London, ON, Canada.
Abstract:
Nondermatophyte moulds (NDMs) onychomycosis is often difficult to diagnose as NDMs have been considered contaminants of nails. There are several diagnostic methods used to identify NDMs, however, repeated laboratory isolation is recommended to validate pathogenicity. With NDM and mixed infection (dermatophytes plus NDM) onychomycosis on the rise, accurate clinical diagnosis along with mycological tests is recommended. Systemic antifungal agents such as itraconazole and terbinafine (e.g. pulse regimen: 1 pulse = every day for one week, followed by no treatment for three weeks) have shown efficacy in treating onychomycosis caused by various NDMs such as Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp., Scopulariopsis brevicaulis, and Onychocola canadensis. Studies investigating topical therapy and devices for NDM onychomycosis are limited. The emergence of antifungal resistance necessitates the incorporation of antifungal susceptibility testing into diagnosis when possible, for the management of recalcitrant infections. Case studies documented in the literature show newer azoles such as posaconazole and voriconazole as sometimes effective in treating resistant NDM onychomycosis. Treatment with broad-spectrum antifungal agents (e.g. itraconazole and efinaconazole) and other combination therapy (oral + oral and/or oral + topical) may be considerations in the management of NDM onychomycosis.
Insights
Diagnosing nondermatophyte mould (NDM) onychomycosis requires careful mycological testing. Effective treatments include systemic antifungals like itraconazole and terbinafine, with newer agents for resistant cases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Nondermatophyte mould (NDM) onychomycosis presents diagnostic challenges due to NDMs often being mistaken for contaminants.
- The incidence of NDM and mixed infections (dermatophytes plus NDMs) causing onychomycosis is increasing.
- Accurate clinical diagnosis combined with mycological testing is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review diagnostic approaches for NDM onychomycosis.
- To summarize current and emerging treatment strategies for NDM onychomycosis.
- To highlight the importance of antifungal susceptibility testing in managing resistant infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on NDM onychomycosis diagnosis and treatment.
- Analysis of diagnostic methods, including repeated laboratory isolation.
- Evaluation of systemic and topical antifungal therapies, including newer azoles and combination treatments.
Main Results:
- Repeated laboratory isolation is key to confirming NDM pathogenicity.
- Systemic antifungals like itraconazole and terbinafine show efficacy against common NDMs.
- Limited studies exist on topical therapies, and antifungal resistance is a growing concern.
- Newer azoles (posaconazole, voriconazole) and combination therapies show promise for recalcitrant NDM onychomycosis.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis and mycological testing are essential for NDM onychomycosis.
- Systemic antifungals are primary treatment options, with newer agents and combination therapies for resistant cases.
- Antifungal susceptibility testing should be considered for managing difficult-to-treat NDM onychomycosis.
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