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Candida onychomycosis in HIV infection
A Tosti1, B M Piraccini, S Lorenzi
1Department of Dermatology, University of Bologna, I-40138 Bologna, Ital
European Journal of Dermatology : EJD
|July 4, 1998
Summary
Candida onychomycosis, a rare nail infection, can indicate underlying immune issues like Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Early diagnosis and antifungal treatment lead to complete recovery without relapse.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Primary nail invasion by Candida species is rare, typically occurring in immunocompromised individuals.
- Candida onychomycosis in non-immunosuppressed adults warrants investigation into immune function, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing.
Observation:
- Two cases of distal subungual onychomycosis caused by Candida sp. in patients with HIV are presented.
- In one case, Candida onychomycosis was diagnosed before advanced HIV infection was identified.
Findings:
- Both patients achieved a complete cure of their Candida onychomycosis following treatment with systemic antifungals.
- A one-year follow-up confirmed no recurrence of the onychomycosis in either patient.
Implications:
- Candida onychomycosis can be an early indicator of undiagnosed HIV infection.
- Systemic antifungal therapy is effective for treating Candida onychomycosis in HIV-positive individuals.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this opportunistic infection.