What are the common causes of nail fungal infections. How can you recognize the symptoms of nail fungus. What are the most effective treatments for combating nail fungal infections. How can you prevent nail fungus from developing or recurring.

Understanding Nail Fungal Infections: An Overview

Nail fungal infections, medically known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, are among the most prevalent nail disorders, accounting for approximately 50% of all nail abnormalities. These infections can affect both fingernails and toenails, though they are more commonly observed in toenails. Microscopic fungi, which thrive in warm, moist environments, are the culprits behind these infections.

Affecting around 10% of the adult population, nail fungus can be a persistent and challenging condition to treat. It’s important to understand that while fungi are typically present on the body, an overgrowth can lead to infection. This article will delve into the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention methods for nail fungal infections, providing you with comprehensive information to effectively manage this common condition.

Identifying the Causes of Nail Fungal Infections

Nail fungal infections are primarily caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, with Trichophyton rubrum being the most common culprit. However, certain yeasts and molds can also be responsible for these infections. Some of the key factors that contribute to the development of nail fungus include:

• Warm, moist environments that promote fungal growth
• Prolonged exposure to water
• Poor nail hygiene
• Weakened immune system
• Trauma to the nail
• Wearing tight, non-breathable footwear
• Frequenting public areas such as swimming pools or locker rooms barefoot

Understanding these causes can help you take proactive steps to prevent nail fungal infections from occurring or recurring.

Can certain medical conditions increase the risk of nail fungus?

Yes, certain medical conditions can indeed increase the risk of developing nail fungus. These include:

• Diabetes
• Circulatory problems
• A weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV
• Psoriasis

If you have any of these conditions, it’s crucial to be extra vigilant about nail care and to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized prevention strategies.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Nail Fungal Infections

Early detection of nail fungal infections is key to effective treatment. Being able to recognize the symptoms can help you seek timely medical attention. Common signs of nail fungus include:

• Discoloration of the nail (often yellow, brown, or white)
• Thickening of the nail
• Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nail edges
• Distorted nail shape
• Foul odor emanating from the infected nail
• Separation of the nail from the nail bed (onycholysis)
• Pain or discomfort in severe cases

It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may develop gradually over time. If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Are there different types of nail fungal infections?

Yes, there are several types of nail fungal infections, each with slightly different characteristics:

1. Distal subungual onychomycosis: The most common type, affecting the nail bed and underside of the nail plate
2. White superficial onychomycosis: Affects the surface of the nail plate, creating white spots or streaks
3. Proximal subungual onychomycosis: Starts at the base of the nail and moves outward
4. Candidal onychomycosis: Caused by Candida yeast, often affecting fingernails
5. Total dystrophic onychomycosis: The most severe form, involving the entire nail unit

Understanding these different types can help healthcare providers determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Effective Treatment Options for Nail Fungal Infections

Treating nail fungal infections can be a lengthy process, often requiring patience and persistence. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection, the type of fungus involved, and individual patient factors. Here are some of the most effective treatment options available:

Oral Antifungal Medications

Oral antifungal medications are often considered the most effective treatment for nail fungus. Common options include:

• Terbinafine (Lamisil)
• Itraconazole (Sporanox)
• Fluconazole (Diflucan)

These medications typically need to be taken for 3-4 months to allow the infected nail to be fully replaced by healthy, uninfected nail growth. While effective, oral antifungals may have side effects and require monitoring of liver function.

Topical Treatments

Topical antifungal treatments are applied directly to the affected nail. While they may be less effective than oral medications for severe infections, they can be useful for mild to moderate cases or as a complementary treatment. Some options include:

• Ciclopirox (Penlac) nail lacquer
• Efinaconazole (Jublia) topical solution
• Tavaborole (Kerydin) topical solution

These treatments usually need to be applied daily for several months to a year for optimal results.

Alternative and Home Remedies

Some people prefer to try alternative or home remedies before or in conjunction with conventional treatments. While scientific evidence is limited for many of these options, some have shown promising results in small studies:

• Vicks VapoRub: A 2011 study suggested potential benefits for nail fungus treatment
• Snakeroot extract: Shown to be as effective as ciclopirox in a 2008 study
• Oregano oil: Contains thymol, which has antifungal properties
• Ozonized oils: Studies have shown positive effects of ozonized sunflower oil in treating nail fungus

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying alternative treatments, especially if you’re also using conventional medications.

Preventing Nail Fungal Infections: Essential Tips

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to nail fungal infections. By adopting good hygiene practices and taking precautionary measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing these infections. Here are some essential prevention tips:

• Keep nails short, clean, and dry
• Wear breathable socks, preferably made from synthetic materials that wick away moisture
• Use antifungal sprays or powders in shoes and on feet
• Wear rubber gloves when hands are frequently exposed to water
• Avoid picking or biting nails
• Wear shoes or sandals in public places, especially around pools and in locker rooms
• Ensure proper sterilization of tools at nail salons
• Limit the use of artificial nails and nail polish
• Wash hands thoroughly after touching infected nails
• Avoid sharing shoes and socks

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can create an environment that’s less hospitable to fungal growth and reduce your risk of infection.

How often should you replace your shoes to prevent nail fungus?

While there’s no strict rule about how often to replace shoes to prevent nail fungus, it’s a good practice to rotate your shoes regularly. This allows each pair to dry out completely between uses, reducing the moist environment that fungi thrive in. Consider these guidelines:

• Rotate between at least two pairs of shoes, allowing 24 hours for each pair to dry out
• Replace athletic shoes every 6-12 months, or sooner if they show signs of wear
• Disinfect shoes periodically, especially if you’ve had a fungal infection
• Use moisture-wicking socks and change them daily or more often if your feet tend to sweat

By following these practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of fungal growth in your shoes and, consequently, on your nails.

Diagnosing Nail Fungal Infections: What to Expect

Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of nail fungal infections. While you may suspect you have a fungal infection based on the appearance of your nails, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis to rule out other conditions that may mimic the symptoms of nail fungus. Here’s what you can expect during the diagnostic process:

Visual Examination

The first step in diagnosing a nail fungal infection is a thorough visual examination by a healthcare provider. They will look for characteristic signs of fungal infection, such as discoloration, thickening, and separation of the nail from the nail bed.

Microscopic Examination

To confirm the presence of fungi, your doctor may take a sample of debris from under your nail. This sample is then examined under a microscope to identify the type of fungus causing the infection.

Fungal Culture

In some cases, a fungal culture may be necessary. This involves taking a sample of the infected nail and allowing it to grow in a laboratory setting. This can help identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection, which can guide treatment decisions.

Nail Biopsy

In rare cases, a nail biopsy may be performed. This involves removing a small piece of the nail to be examined in a laboratory. This is typically done if initial tests are inconclusive or if the infection is particularly severe or resistant to treatment.

By accurately diagnosing the type and extent of the fungal infection, healthcare providers can recommend the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.

The Impact of Nail Fungal Infections on Quality of Life

While nail fungal infections are often considered a cosmetic issue, they can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. Understanding these effects can highlight the importance of prompt treatment and prevention. Here are some ways nail fungus can affect daily life:

Physical Discomfort

In advanced cases, nail fungal infections can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when wearing shoes or engaging in physical activities. This can limit mobility and affect one’s ability to participate in sports or exercise.

Psychological Impact

The appearance of infected nails can cause embarrassment and self-consciousness, leading to:

• Reduced self-esteem
• Social anxiety
• Avoidance of activities that expose the nails (e.g., swimming, wearing open-toed shoes)
• Stress and frustration, especially if treatments are not immediately effective

Increased Risk of Secondary Infections

Fungal nail infections can create openings in the skin around the nail, increasing the risk of bacterial infections. This is particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems.

Financial Burden

Treating nail fungal infections can be costly, especially considering:

• The need for long-term medication
• Potential doctor visits and lab tests
• The cost of over-the-counter treatments and preventive measures

Given these potential impacts, it’s clear that nail fungal infections are more than just a cosmetic concern. Prompt treatment and prevention strategies are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Nail Fungal Infections

The field of nail fungal infection treatment is continually evolving, with researchers exploring new approaches to combat this persistent condition. Here are some promising areas of research and potential future treatments:

Laser Therapy

Laser treatments have shown potential in treating nail fungus by using targeted light to eliminate fungi without damaging surrounding tissue. While more research is needed to establish long-term efficacy, early results are promising.

Photodynamic Therapy

This treatment involves applying a photosensitizing agent to the nail and then exposing it to a specific wavelength of light. The light activates the agent, which then destroys the fungal cells. Research is ongoing to optimize this approach for nail fungus treatment.

Nanotechnology-Based Treatments

Scientists are exploring the use of nanoparticles to deliver antifungal agents more effectively to the site of infection. This could potentially improve the efficacy of topical treatments, which currently struggle to penetrate the nail plate effectively.

Combination Therapies

Researchers are investigating the potential of combining different treatment modalities, such as oral medications with topical treatments or laser therapy, to improve overall efficacy and reduce treatment duration.

Natural Antifungal Compounds

There is ongoing research into natural compounds with antifungal properties. These could potentially provide new treatment options with fewer side effects compared to traditional antifungal medications.

As research progresses, we can expect to see more innovative and effective treatments for nail fungal infections in the future. However, it’s important to remember that prevention and early treatment remain key in managing this common condition.

Nail fungal infections, while common, can be challenging to treat and can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing the available treatment options, you can take proactive steps to prevent and manage these infections effectively. Remember, early detection and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes. If you suspect you have a nail fungal infection, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. With patience, persistence, and proper care, you can overcome nail fungus and maintain healthy, beautiful nails.

Nail fungal infection: Causes, treatment, and symptoms

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Fungus is typically present on the body, but overgrowth can lead to a fungal infection. Nail fungal infections include onychomycosis and tinea unguium. Oral or topical medications and home remedies, such as applying Vicks, may help manage it.

They are also known as onychomycosis and tinea unguium.

Nail fungal infections are the most common diseases of the nails, making up about 50% of nail abnormalities.

Both fingernails and toenails are susceptible to infection, which usually appears as discoloration and thickening of the nail, and crumbling edges. The condition most commonly occurs in toenails.

Around 10 percent of the adult population suffers from nail fungus infection. Here we will provide an overview of nail fungal infections, in addition to common causes, treatments, and symptoms.

Fast facts on nail fungal infection:

• Microscopic fungi in the nail cause the condition.
• It can affect both fingernails and toenails but is more common in feet.
• Diagnosis is carried out by examination of the debris under the nail.

Was this helpful?

Share on PinterestOne of the simple methods of prevention for nail fungal infection is keeping nails short and clean.

Treating nail fungus infections can be a long and expensive process. There are oral antifungal medications, topical ointments, and alternative therapies. Over the counter creams and ointments are available, but they have not proved very effective.

Oral medications for nail fungus infection include:

• terbinafine (Lamisil)
• itraconazole (Sporanox)
• fluconazole (Diflucan)

These typically take up to 4 months before fully replacing the infected nail with uninfected nail.

In some extreme cases, a physician will opt to remove the entire nail.

Topical nail fungus treatments can appear clear nail fungal infections, but often do not completely cure the infection.

Other home remedies shown to have potentially promising clinical effects on nail fungus include:

• Vicks VapoRub: This is normally used to treat coughs. However, a study published in 2011suggests that it could be beneficial in nail fungus treatment.
• Snakeroot extract: A 2008 study demonstrated that this naturally antifungal plant can be as effective as ciclopirox, a prescription antifungal treatment, in treating nail fungus.
• Oregano oil: This contains thymol, which is said to have antifungal properties. Oregano oil is sometimes combined with tea tree oil in treatments, but side effects can be potent and combining them can increase the possibility of an allergic reaction or irritation.
• Ozonized oils: Olive oil and sunflower oil are examples of oils that have been infused with the same gases present in the ozone layer. There are numerous studies confirming the benefits of this type of oil in treating nail fungus. In one study, ozonized sunflower oil showed greater clinical effects than the prescribed antifungal medication ketoconazole.

Other alternative medicines used to treat nail fungal infections include Australian tea tree oil, vinegar, listerine, and grapefruit seed extract. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting the use of these products.

Prevention

Preventing nail fungus infections requires hand and foot hygiene. Some suggestions include:

• keeping nails short, dry, and clean
• wearing socks that breathe, usually synthetic
• using antifungal sprays or powders
• wearing rubber gloves to avoid overexposure to water
• refraining from picking or biting nails
• wearing shoes or sandals in public places and pools
• ensuring that your manicure or pedicure salon properly sterilizes tools
• using artificial nails and nail polish less often
• washing hands after touching infected nails
• avoiding sharing shoes and socks

Microscopic organisms called fungi cause nail fungal infections; they do not require sunlight to survive so can thrive in these areas.

Most commonly, a group of fungi called dermatophytes (such as Candida) is responsible for nail fungal infections. However, some yeasts and molds also cause these infections; these include:

• Trichophyton rubrum – the most common dermatophyte that causes nail fungal infections.
• Trichophyton interdigitale.
• Epidermophyton floccosum.
• Trichophyton violaceum.
• Microsporum gypseum.
• Trichophyton tonsurans.
• Trichophyton soudanense.

Common mold causes include:

• neoscytalidium
• scopulariopsis
• aspergillus

Pathogens that cause nail fungus infection usually enter the skin through tiny cuts or small separations between the nail and nail bed. The fungi grow when the nail provides a suitably warm and moist environment.

Anyone can get a fungal nail infection, but they are more common in men than women and the elderly than the young. Some additional traits or factors raise the risk of nail fungal infection, these include:

• diminished blood circulation
• slow growing nails
• a family history of fungal infection
• heavy perspiration
• humid or moist work environment
• wearing artificial nails
• wearing socks and shoes that prevent ventilation
• walking barefoot in damp public places, such as swimming pools, gyms, and shower rooms
• previous injury or infection to the skin or nail
• diabetes, AIDS, circulation problems, a weakened immune system
• tight footwear with crowding of toes
• exercise that causes repeated minor trauma to the hyponychium, where the finger tip attaches to the nail

Older adults are the most at risk of nail fungus infections as lower blood circulation and slower growing nails are part of the natural aging process.

Share on PinterestA nail with onychomycosis, commonly caused by nail fungus infections.

Nails that are infected with fungus typically are:

• thickened
• brittle
• crumbly
• ragged
• distorted
• dull
• darker or yellowish in color

There may be also be:

• scaling under the nail – hyperkeratosis
• yellow or white streaking – lateral onychomycosis
• yellow spots at the bottom of the nail – proximal onychomycosis
• infected nails may separate from the nail bed – onycholysis

Nail fungal infections can result in pain in the toes or fingertips, and they may even emit a foul odor.

Another symptom associated with nail fungus infections are fungus-free skin lesions called dermatophytids. These may appear like rashes or itchiness in an area of the body that is not infected with the fungus – much like an allergic reaction.

In order to diagnose nail fungus infections, a doctor will usually examine debris that is scraped from underneath the nail. The nail scrapings will be used in tests, such as a potassium hydroxide (KOH) smear, or a fungal culture. The KOH test can be quickly performed, while the fungal culture can take weeks.

Physicians must be careful when diagnosing fungal infections of the nail because several other conditions can result in similar symptoms. These include psoriasis, lichen planus, contact dermatitis, trauma, nail bed tumor, eczema, and yellow nail syndrome.

Patients with diabetes are susceptible to complications and should consult their doctor; however, fungal nail infections usually have a good prognosis if treated promptly. Although they are unpleasant or irritating, most nail fungal infections can be treated successfully without complications after treatment.

The treatment can take a long time to fully cure the infection, and may require additional rounds of treatment. Complications in some extreme cases may include nail damage or permanent loss, or spread of the infection. There is also a small chance of developing cellulitis.

Some of the treatments and home remedies listed in this article are available for purchase online. Speak to a doctor before trying a new treatment.

• Shop for Lamisil.
• Shop for Vicks VapoRub.
• Shop for snakeroot extract.
• Shop for oregano oil.
• Shop for sunflower oil.

Fungal nail infection Information | Mount Sinai

Nails – fungal infection; Onychomycosis; Tinea unguium

Fungal nail infection is a fungus growing in and around your fingernail or toenail.

A paronychia is an infection around the nail. Many organisms can cause a paronychia. This particular case is caused by the yeast-like organism Candida. Note the inflammation (red, swollen area) at the base of the nail and the changes that are apparent in the nail itself.

Mold and yeast are two types of fungus. Both can cause allergic reactions. Fungal spores can circulate in the air and may cause allergic rhinitis when inhaled.

Causes

Fungi can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers.

Common fungal infections include:

• Athlete’s foot
• Jock itch
• Ringworm on the skin of the body or head

Fungal nail infections often start after a fungal infection on the feet. They occur more often in toenails than in fingernails. They are most often seen in adults as they age.

You are at higher risk of getting a fungal nail infection if you have any of the following:

• Diabetes
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Peripheral neuropathies
• Minor skin or nail injuries
• Deformed nail or nail disease
• Moist skin for a long time
• Immune system problems
• Family history
• Wear footwear that does not allow air to reach your feet

Symptoms

Symptoms include nail changes on one or more nails (usually toenails), such as:

• Brittleness
• Change in nail shape
• Crumbling of the outside edges of the nail
• Debris trapped under the nail
• Loosening or lifting of the nail
• Loss of luster and shine on the nail surface
• Thickening of the nail
• White or yellow streaks on the side of the nail

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider will examine your nails to find out if you have a fungal infection.

The diagnosis can be confirmed by looking at scrapings from the nail under a microscope. This can help determine the type of fungus. Samples can also be sent to a lab for a culture. (Results may take 4 to 6 weeks.)

Treatment

Over-the-counter creams and ointments usually do not help treat this condition.

Prescription antifungal medicines that you take by mouth may help clear the fungus.

• You will need to take the medicine for about 2 to 3 months for toenails; a shorter time for fingernails.
• Your provider will do lab tests to check for liver damage while you are taking these medicines.

Laser treatments may sometimes get rid of the fungus in the nails. This is less effective than medicines.

In some cases, you may need to have the nail removed.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The fungal nail infection is cured by the growth of new, non-infected nails. Nails grow slowly. Even if treatment is successful, it may take up to a year for a new clear nail to grow.

Fungal nail infections may be hard to treat. Medicines clear up fungus in about one half of the people who try them.

Even when treatment works, the fungus may return.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if:

• You have fungal nail infections that do not go away
• Your fingers become painful, red, or drain pus

Prevention

Good general health and hygiene help prevent fungal infections.

• DO NOT share tools used for manicures and pedicures.
• Keep your skin clean and dry.
• Take proper care of your nails.
• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly after touching any kind of fungal infection.

Dinulos JGH. Nail diseases. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif’s Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 25.

Holguin T, Osmani S, Mishra K. Fungal infections of the skin. In: Kellerman RD, Rakel DP, eds. Conn’s Current Therapy 2022. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:1058-1062.

Tosti A, Iorizzo M. Tinea unguium. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Coulson IH, Murrell DF, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 243.

Last reviewed on: 11/18/2022

Reviewed by: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Ringworm melts nails, softens lymph nodes and kills hair: how to treat it

1. 05/25/2018
2. Category:

Trichophyton mushrooms are distinguished by excessive aggressiveness. Getting on the skin or nails of a person, they multiply quickly enough, affecting large areas. In addition, they, like skilled hairdressers, deftly “cut” their hair. For this reason, the disease that occurs with their presence is called ringworm.

It is very easy to get infected with this fungus. He “passes” to a healthy person through direct contact with the patient, as well as his headdress, clothes, bed linen, combs and other household items. Facilitates the spread of infection weakened immunity, damage to the stratum corneum of the epidermis, as well as the duration of contact with the diseased. And then this infection adapts. A feature of this fungus is its ability to spread not only through the skin, but also through the lymphatic pathways, which significantly speeds up the “colonization” of a new “victim” by it.

From the moment the fungus enters the skin, hair or nails of a person until the first signs of the disease appear, it usually takes from 5 to 15 days. The disease is manifested by the formation of several or multiple foci of noticeable thinning of the hair and significant peeling in the form of small bran-like gray or whitish scales. In the foci, the hair breaks at a distance of 1-3 millimeters from the skin. From the outside, they resemble stumps after deforestation. Or a haircut. The foci can be of very different shapes – from round to arbitrary configuration. In diameter, they exceed 2-3 centimeters. And methodically increase in size.

An overgrown focus is a bumpy, crimson tumor-like formation rising above the level of the skin, from which drops of thick pus are released. If this focus is on the scalp, then the hair practically falls out, and those that remain can be easily removed with tweezers. With the defeat of regional lymph nodes, they increase in size, can soften and even open spontaneously. This process is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, the appearance of headache and malaise.

Trichophytons can make their presence chronic. More often, chronic ringworm affects women who have been sick since childhood. This form of the disease appears in connection with violations of the functions of the thyroid and gonads, changes in the peripheral circulation and immunobiological resistance of the body. All this against the background of a decrease in vitamin availability. At the same time, on the part of the head covered with hair (more often in the temporal and occipital regions), small, smooth, resembling scars or flaky foci appear, without visible inflammation. Hair in these places break at the level of the skin. In their place, so-called “black dots” are formed. On the skin of the buttocks, thighs, extensor surface of the knee and elbow joints, palms, there are inflamed, cyanotic or pinkish, indistinctly defined, slightly flaky spots of large sizes. In addition, patients report moderate itching. The affected nail plates of the fingers lose their luster, transparency, become cloudy, gray. Their free edge is jagged. The nails then sharply become thinner, then, on the contrary, they become denser. Chronic ringworm lasts for years, even decades, so sufferers pose a potential threat to others. In fact, they become “walking” carriers of the infection.

Whatever the consequences of ringworm, it is better to get rid of it as soon as possible. Moreover, modern drugs allow you to completely cure the disease in a fairly short period of time. To cope with a fungal infection and foci on smooth skin, griseofulvin is prescribed to patients. It is taken daily 3 times a day until hair analysis confirms the absence of the fungus. This usually requires a 15-25 day course. Then the drug is prescribed in the same dose, but every other day for 2 weeks, then 1 time in 3 days, also for 2 weeks. In the morning, the foci are smeared with a 3-5% solution of iodine, and at night they are rubbed with sulfuric salicylic acid (3% salicylic acid, 10% precipitated sulfur) or sulfuric tar (5 or 10% sulfur and tar in equal parts each). relation to the ointment base) ointments. Before starting treatment, the hair on the head is shaved off and then shaved once a week. While a person is undergoing treatment, he is contagious, so his contact with others should be as limited as possible. And for those who have to communicate closely with him, it will not be superfluous to periodically check. Any dermatologist can examine the skin, and at the slightest suspicion of infection, prescribe treatment.

Gleb SIVEROV

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Mycosis of the hair or ringworm – Medical laboratory IMD

Ringworm or microsporia is a fungal disease that affects hair, smooth skin, and in some cases nails. Ringworm is the second most common fungal disease after athlete’s foot.

Microsporia is caused by fungi of the genus Microsporum .

Hair fungus often affects young children, in whom the protective functions of the skin have not yet fully developed.

How hair fungus spreads

There are anthropophilic (affecting only humans) and zooanthropophilic (affecting both humans and animals) species of microsporia.

Infection with anthropophilic fungi occurs through direct contact with a sick person or through infected objects that he used.

Zooanthropophilic fungus can be picked up from sick animals (more often cats, dogs).

Entrance gates for the causative agent of ringworm are microtraumas of the skin.

Dryness, the presence of corns also increase the likelihood of infection, since healthy skin is protected from the introduction of the fungus.

What are the symptoms of hair fungus

The scalp fungus is characterized by the appearance of several red spots with clear boundaries.

Edema with small vesicles and crusts is formed along the periphery. In the center of the spot, peeling and blanching are observed, so the focus resembles the characteristic appearance of a ring.

In these places the hairs are broken off at the level of 6-8 mm from the head. The surface of the lesions is often covered with gray scales, as if sprinkled with flour.

Hair fungus is seasonal, as a result of which it very often affects the hair and skin in the summer-autumn period.

How to take a hair fungus test

Hair fungus test consists in detecting a pathogen when examining a patient by a dermatologist using a fluorescent study, as well as laboratory microscopic and cultural (sowing) studies.

Luminescent examination performed by a dermatologist using Wood’s lamp: infected hair under the lamp acquires a bright green glow.

Microscopic method (using 2 types of microscopes: light and fluorescent) detects fungal mycelial filaments in skin scales and hair fragments. Fluorescent microscopy excludes artifacts and therefore false positive results.

Culture (fungal culture) is required to identify the causative fungus, which is essential for effective treatment of ringworm. Sowing must necessarily be carried out on 2 media (one medium must contain cycloheximide), in order to make sure that the causative agent of the disease is a dermatophyte fungus. Also, the cultural method determines which drug the causative agent of the disease is sensitive to.

You can get tested for hair fungus in our IMD laboratory.

How to treat hair fungus

Hair fungus on the head can be treated well if diagnosed in time. Ringworm therapy includes antimycotic drugs with terbinafine, itroconazole, clotrimazole, or ciclopirox. Traditional 10-20% sulfuric and 10% sulfur-tar ointments are also used.

Combined preparations containing corticosteroids are indicated for severe inflammatory processes.

The gold standard in the treatment of microsporia is griseofulvin, which is available in tablet form. The course of treatment takes an average of 1.5-2 months. It is recommended to epilate the affected areas of the skin and wash your hair 2 times a week with special products.

Prevention of hair fungus

As a preventive measure, it is recommended to strictly adhere to the rules of personal hygiene (do not wear other people’s hats, do not use other people’s combs), as well as take precautions when visiting public places (baths, saunas, swimming pools).