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Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis: Causes and Treatment
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is a type of fungal infection that affects the nails. This condition primarily impacts the health of the nails and surrounding skin, leading to changes in their appearance and texture. The infection can cause discomfort and affect the overall wellbeing of an individual, as it may lead to selfconsciousness or embarrassment due to the visible changes in the nails. It is important to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment to address the effects of proximal subungual onychomycosis on health and prevent potential complications.
What are the Symptoms of Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis
Proximal subungual onychomycosis typically presents with specific symptoms affecting the nails.
- Yellow or white discoloration of the nail plate
- Thickened or brittle nails
- Nail lifting from the nail bed
- Pain or discomfort around the nails
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Get Second OpinionCauses of Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is commonly caused by dermatophyte fungi entering the nail through the proximal nail fold.
- Fungal infection
- Trauma to the nail
- Poor nail hygiene
- Chronic moisture exposure
- Immune system disorders
Types of Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis
Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis typically presents in different forms, each characterized by distinct patterns of nail changes and symptoms.
- White Superficial Onychomycosis (WSO): A type of proximal subungual onychomycosis characterized by white patches on the nail plate.
- Distal Lateral Subungual Onychomycosis (DLSO): Fungal infection that starts at the tip or side of the nail and progresses towards the cuticle.
- Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis (TDO): Infection that affects the entire nail, leading to thickening, discoloration, and crumbling.
- Endonyx Onychomycosis: Fungal infection that occurs within the nail plate, causing whitening without nail plate separation.
- Candidal Onychomycosis: Nail infection caused by Candida species, leading to nail plate discoloration and thickening.
Risk Factors
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is commonly associated with factors such as diabetes, compromised immune function, and a history of nail trauma.
Risk factors for Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis:
- Aging
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
- Weakened immune system
- Trauma to the nail
- Prolonged exposure to moisture
- Athlete's foot or other fungal infections
- Family history of fungal nail infections
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Diagnosis of Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination and laboratory tests.
- Microscopic examination of nail clippings
- Fungal culture test of nail clippings
Treatment for Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is commonly treated by addressing the underlying fungal infection to improve the health and appearance of the affected nail.
Oral Antifungal Medications:
- These medications are taken by mouth to treat the fungal infection from within the body. They are often prescribed for severe cases of proximal subungual onychomycosis.
Topical Antifungal Treatments:
- Creams, gels, or solutions applied directly to the affected nail can help combat the fungal infection. They are often used for mild to moderate cases of proximal subungual onychomycosis.
Laser Therapy:
- Laser treatment targets and destroys the fungus infecting the nail. It is a noninvasive option that can be effective in treating proximal subungual onychomycosis.
Surgical Nail Removal:
- In severe cases where other treatments have failed, surgical removal of the affected nail may be necessary to allow for the application of antifungal medication directly to the nail bed.
Combination Therapy:
- Combining different treatment modalities, such as oral medications with topical treatments, can provide a more comprehensive approach to treating proximal subungual onychomycosis, improving the chances of successful eradication of the fungal infection.
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040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
What is Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis (PSO)?
Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection that starts at the base of the nail and progresses towards the tip.
What are the common symptoms of Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis?
Symptoms include yellow or white discoloration of the nail, thickening, and crumbling of the nail plate.
How is Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination, nail clippings for microscopy and culture, or a biopsy.
What are the treatment options for Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis?
Treatment may involve topical or oral antifungal medications, laser therapy, or surgical removal of the nail in severe cases.
Can Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis be prevented?
Prevention includes keeping nails clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, and not sharing nail care tools.
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