Nail Infection Fungus

The different types of nail infection fungus can be divided up into three basic groups: dermatophytes, saprophytes, and yeasts. Although many cases of fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) do respond to the same medication, the three groups generally have different sources and sometimes require different treatment so it is important in each case to know which type is involved. Before treating an infected nail, it’s a good idea to have it examined by a physician and sampled for lab testing if appropriate.

The dermatophytes are the most common fungi in onychomycosis. These species are specially adapted to break down keratin, the protein in nails, horns, hoofs, hair, and even skin cells, as a nutrient source. Dermatophytes belong to a number of different genera but they have been well studied and specialists know how to distinguish them from other fungi that are sometimes isolated from nails. In fact, many fungi isolated from nails are not nail infection fungus, they are simply environmental contamination. Hands and feet are often dirty!

The second group of nail infection fungus is the saprophytes. These are actually environmental fungi typically involved in the breakdown of decaying organic matter in the world around us. They don’t usually cause nail infections but they are capable of doing so in some individuals and under some conditions. When we find these fungi in onychomycosis cases, the significance is unclear – it’s up to your physician to decide whether the species is causing a problem.

Yeasts are not truly nail infection fungus, but they are closely related organisms that can infect nails, particularly the soft tissue nearby, causing a painful condition. Typically seen in people whose feet or hands are often in water or wet conditions, the infection generally comes on much more quickly that one caused by dermatophytes or saprophytes and is so uncomfortable that the victim quickly seeks medical aid. Of all the fungi in onychomycosis, yeasts are the least likely to go untreated.

If you suspect that you have onychomycosis, see your physician promptly – nail infection fungus is best treated early.