Infection of toe and finger nails by fungi is referred to as onychomycosis. It has an overall prevalence of 2% to 13% worldwide, but the prevalence is much higher in elderly people and those with weak immune system. Toenails are affected in 80% of all cases of nail infection.

What Causes Nail Infection?
Over 90% of nail fungal infection cases are caused by the mould Trichophyton rubrum followed by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. There are other moulds that cause nail infection including yeasts such as Candida species.

What Are The Symptoms of Nail Infection?
Initial infection may go unnoticed but as the fungus damges the nail, the following symptoms may be observed:

• Discoloration of the nail plate or bed
• Nail thickening or deformity
• Crumbling of nails
• Pain, redness and swelling of the surrounding skin
• bad smell

How Does Infection Occur?
Nail fungal infection occurs when one gets into direct contact with an infected person or indirectly through sharing a shower, shoes, or nail clippers. One may also get infected by bathing in contaminated communal bathing facilities. Tiny cuts on the nails helps the fungus to get through.

Treatment of Nail Infection
Nail fungal infection may appear a minor cosmetic problem that does not merit treatment. However there are good reasons why one should seek treatment. So, if you suspected your nails could be infected, visit your doctor for advice.


References
Roberts DT, Taylor WD, Boyle J (2003). Guidelines for treatment of onychomycosis. British Journal of Dermatology; 148: 402–410.