Onychomycosis – mycolab.ai

Molecular identification of yeast communities isolated from nail specimens by PCR-RFLP and PCR-FSP methods

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This study developed and compared two molecular methods to accurately identify different yeast species that cause nail infections. Researchers tested 269 patient samples and found that both PCR-RFLP and PCR-FSP methods were effective, with PCR-FSP being better at identifying rare yeast species. These methods help doctors identify the exact type of yeast causing infection, which is important for selecting the right antifungal medication for treatment.

Overexpression of efflux pump and biofilm associated genes in itraconazole resistant Candida albicans isolates causing onychomycosis

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This research examines why some fungal infections of the nails resist treatment with the antifungal drug itraconazole. Scientists found that resistant fungi produce more proteins that pump the drug out of their cells (efflux pumps) and form protective biofilm structures. Understanding these resistance mechanisms could help develop better combination treatments that work alongside antifungal drugs to overcome resistance.

Overexpression of efflux pump and biofilm associated genes in itraconazole resistant Candida albicans isolates causing onychomycosis

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Nail fungal infections caused by Candida albicans can be difficult to treat when the fungus becomes resistant to common antifungal medications like itraconazole. Researchers found that resistant strains have overactive genes that pump the drug out of fungal cells and genes that help the fungus form protective biofilm structures. Understanding these resistance mechanisms could lead to better combination treatments that block these protective strategies.

Two Cases of Fungal Melanonychia

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Two patients developed dark pigmentation on their toenails caused by rare combinations of fungal infections. Through laboratory testing and genetic analysis, doctors identified fungi never before known to cause this type of nail discoloration. Both patients were successfully treated with an antifungal medication called efinaconazole, with complete resolution of symptoms within a few months.

Onychomycosis with gray-green staining caused by Fusarium solani

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A 76-year-old gardener developed a gray-green discolored thumbnail that was initially thought to be a bacterial infection. Testing revealed it was actually caused by a fungus called Fusarium solani, which unusually produced dark-green colonies. The patient was successfully treated by removing the affected nail and applying an antifungal medication, demonstrating the importance of proper fungal testing for nail infections.

Two Cases of Fungal Melanonychia

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This paper describes two unusual cases where fungal infections of the toenails caused dark pigmentation (melanonychia). The first patient had a combination of two fungi (Aspergillus hiratsukae and Trichosporon faecale) causing black nail streaks, while the second had Exophiala xenobiotica and Trichophyton interdigitale causing dark-brown discoloration. Both patients were successfully treated with an antifungal medication called efinaconazole over several months.

Clinico-mycological study of superficial mycoses and correlation with anti-fungal susceptibility among the Candida isolates in a teaching institution of Western India

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This study examined fungal skin infections in 330 patients in Western India, identifying which fungi cause these infections and which antifungal drugs work best. Researchers found that Candida yeasts were especially common in nail infections while Trichophyton fungi were more common in skin infections. The antifungal drug caspofungin was most effective against Candida, while the commonly used drug fluconazole showed increasing resistance.

Epidermophyton floccosum, an etiological agent of tinea pedis and tinea unguium: about two cases

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Two elderly patients were diagnosed with fungal nail and foot infections caused by Epidermophyton floccosum, a fungus that has become less common in recent years. Both cases were confirmed using advanced molecular testing (real-time PCR) alongside traditional laboratory methods. The infections were successfully treated with terbinafine, an antifungal medication. This case report highlights the importance of using modern diagnostic techniques to accurately identify and treat fungal infections.

Safety and efficacy of the swift microwave device in patients with mild-to-moderate onychomycosis: Protocol of an open-label, randomized, dose-finding pilot study

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This study evaluates a new microwave device (Swift System) as a potential treatment for fungal nail infections (onychomycosis). The device uses microwave energy to heat and eliminate fungal infections directly at the nail site, avoiding the side effects of oral medications. Researchers tested three different treatment schedules in 39 patients over 12 months to find the most effective dosing approach.

The association of Yarrowia lipolytica with onychomycosis

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A 20-year-old woman had a persistent toenail infection that did not respond to multiple antifungal treatments. Researchers identified the cause as Yarrowia lipolytica, an unusual yeast that had never been found causing nail infections before. The yeast was resistant to several common antifungal medications, explaining why previous treatments failed. This case shows the importance of identifying the exact fungus causing an infection to develop effective treatment strategies.

Research Keyword: Onychomycosis