Research Keyword: Onychomycosis

Utility of MALDI-ToF MS for Recognition and Antifungal Susceptibility of Nannizzia, an Underestimated Group of Dermatophytes

Nannizzia species are soil-dwelling fungi that increasingly cause stubborn skin, nail, and hair infections in humans and animals. This study tested two laboratory methods for identifying these fungi and measured their sensitivity to eight antifungal drugs. The faster liquid-based method was slightly more accurate (67%) than the traditional culture method (62%), though neither method could identify six very rare species. Terbinafine emerged as the most effective antifungal treatment in laboratory tests.

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

This study examined why some fungal nail infections caused by Candida albicans don’t respond to itraconazole treatment. Researchers found that resistant fungi have higher levels of genes that pump the antifungal drug out of their cells and genes that help them form protective biofilm layers. These findings suggest that combining itraconazole with drugs that block these pumps or disrupt biofilms could be more effective for treating stubborn fungal nail infections.

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In vitro characterization of Trichophyton rubrum biofilm by combined anti-biofilm enzymes

Athlete’s foot and nail fungal infections caused by Trichophyton rubrum are difficult to treat because the fungus forms protective biofilms that resist antifungal medications. This research shows that enzymes like cellulase, protease, and amylase can break down these biofilm barriers when used alone or in combination. The combination approach was most effective, suggesting that enzyme-based treatments could become useful additions to current fungal infection therapies.

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Five-Year Retrospective Analysis of Superficial Fungal Infections: Insights from Hospital Experience

This study examined fungal skin infections in over 3,900 patients at a Serbian military hospital over five years. Researchers found that common fungi like Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. rubrum caused most infections, with patterns varying by season, patient gender, and body location. Men were more likely to have foot infections while women showed more diverse fungal types. The findings suggest doctors should use more precise identification methods like MALDI-TOF testing to prescribe better treatments and help prevent recurring infections.

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Schizophyllum commune

Schizophyllum commune, commonly known as the split-gill mushroom, is a fungus that grows on wood and was historically considered just a common environmental organism. However, scientists discovered in 1950 that this mushroom could actually infect human tissue, causing conditions like nail infections. This discovery was surprising because mushrooms were not previously known to infect living animals. Today, researchers recognize it as an emerging fungal pathogen that can pose health risks to humans.

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Epidemiological profile of dermatophytes at the parasitology-mycology laboratory at Mohammed VI University Hospital in Oujda

This study examined fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes in a Moroccan hospital over four years, analyzing 950 samples. The researchers found that nail infections (onychomycosis) were most common, particularly in people over 50 years old, while scalp infections mainly affected children. The fungus Trichophyton rubrum was responsible for most infections, though Microsporum canis increasingly caused scalp infections, likely due to increased pet ownership in Morocco. The study emphasizes the importance of proper laboratory testing to identify the specific fungus and choose appropriate treatment.

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