Onychophosis

Onychophosis, also known as thickened toenails, is a common condition in which the nails on the toes become abnormally thick and brittle. This condition can be caused by a number of different factors, including fungal infections, aging, trauma, and certain medical conditions.

The nails are made up of a hard protein called keratin, which is produced by the cells at the base of the nail. As these cells grow and mature, they push the nail forward, forming a new layer of keratin on top of the existing one. Over time, the nails become thicker as more and more layers of keratin are added. In onychophosis, this process is accelerated, leading to abnormally thick and brittle nails. The nails can become so thick that it is difficult to cut them with normal nail clippers, and they may also become discolored or develop a yellow or brownish tinge.

Causes

The main causes of onychophosis in detail.

1. Aging: As people age, their nails tend to become thicker, brittle, and more difficult to cut. This is due to a reduction in blood circulation to the nails, as well as changes in the texture and composition of the nails. Onychophosis is a common condition in older people, and is usually not a cause for concern.
2. Trauma: Toenails can become thickened and discolored as a result of injury, such as repeated stubbing of the toes, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or dropping heavy objects on the toes. Trauma to the nails can cause them to become thick, brittle, and discolored, and can also lead to the development of fungal infections.
3. Fungal infections: Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, are a common cause of onychophosis. The fungus that causes these infections can thrive in warm, moist environments, such as in shoes or in public showers. Symptoms of a fungal infection include thick, brittle, discolored nails, as well as an unpleasant odor.
4. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, psoriasis, and peripheral artery disease, can increase the risk of developing onychophosis. Diabetes can cause poor circulation, which can lead to thick, brittle nails. Psoriasis can cause nails to become thick and discolored, and peripheral artery disease can prevent blood from reaching the nails, leading to thick, brittle nails.
5. Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene, such as not washing the feet regularly or wearing the same shoes every day, can increase the risk of developing fungal infections and other conditions that can cause onychophosis.
6. Nail polish: Wearing nail polish for extended periods of time can cause nails to become thick and discolored, as the polish can trap moisture under the nail and prevent air from reaching the nail.
7. Smoking: Smoking can cause nails to become thick and discolored, as the chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the blood vessels that supply blood to the nails.
8. Nutrient deficiencies: Nutrient deficiencies, such as a lack of biotin or iron, can cause nails to become thick, brittle, and discolored. A diet that is low in vitamins and minerals can also increase the risk of developing onychophosis.
9. Chemical exposure: Exposure to chemicals, such as harsh cleaning products, can cause nails to become thick and discolored. The chemicals can cause damage to the nails and make them more susceptible to fungal infections.
10. Medical treatments: Certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can cause nails to become thick, brittle, and discolored. The treatments can cause damage to the nails and make them more susceptible to fungal infections.

Symptoms

The following is a comprehensive list of symptoms associated with onychophosis:

1. Thicker than normal toenails: One of the most obvious symptoms of onychophosis is the thickening of the toenails. The nails may become so thick that they are difficult to cut or trim.
2. Yellow or discolored nails: The thickened toenails may also become yellow or discolored, which is often a sign of a fungal infection.
3. Deformed toenails: Onychophosis can cause the toenails to become misshapen or deformed, which can make them difficult to fit into shoes. The nails may also develop ridges or a rough texture.
4. Brittle or fragile nails: The thickened nails may become brittle or fragile, which can make them prone to cracking or breaking.
5. Pain or discomfort: In severe cases of onychophosis, the thickened nails can cause pain or discomfort when wearing shoes or walking.
6. Foul odor: If the thickened toenails are caused by a fungal infection, they may produce a foul odor.
7. Separation of the nail from the nail bed: In severe cases of onychophosis, the nails may separate from the nail bed, which can lead to further pain and discomfort.
8. Reduced nail growth: Onychophosis can cause the toenails to grow more slowly or stop growing altogether.
9. Inflammation: In severe cases, the thickened nails may cause inflammation of the surrounding skin.
10. Difficulty walking: In severe cases of onychophosis, the thickened nails can make it difficult to walk, which can lead to further discomfort and pain.

It’s important to note that while onychophosis is often a benign condition, it can be indicative of an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes or peripheral arterial disease. In these cases, it’s essential to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying conditions.

Diagnosis

There are several diagnostic tests used to diagnose onychomycosis, including clinical examination, fungal culture, and direct microscopy.

1. Clinical Examination: A clinical examination is the first step in diagnosing onychomycosis. The doctor will examine the affected nail and surrounding skin for signs of infection, such as thickening, discoloration, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. The doctor may also ask about any other symptoms, such as pain, discomfort, or itching, and any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the condition.
2. Fungal Culture: Fungal culture is a laboratory test that is used to diagnose onychomycosis. A sample of the affected nail is taken and placed on a special growth medium in the laboratory. The laboratory will then monitor the growth of the fungus over time to determine which type of fungus is causing the infection. This test can take several days to several weeks to complete, and it is considered to be the most accurate diagnostic test for onychomycosis.
3. Direct Microscopy: Direct microscopy is another diagnostic test that can be used to diagnose onychomycosis. A sample of the affected nail is taken and examined under a microscope to look for the presence of fungal spores or hyphae. This test is quick and easy to perform, but it is not as accurate as fungal culture.
4. Nail Clippings and Scrapings: Nail clippings and scrapings are two other diagnostic tests that can be used to diagnose onychomycosis. A sample of the affected nail is taken and examined under a microscope to look for the presence of fungal elements. This test is quick and easy to perform, but it is not as accurate as fungal culture.
5. Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) Preparation: A KOH preparation is a diagnostic test that is used to diagnose onychomycosis. A sample of the affected nail is taken and mixed with potassium hydroxide (KOH) to dissolve the keratin and allow the fungal elements to be seen under a microscope. This test is quick and easy to perform, but it is not as accurate as fungal culture.
6. Mycology Stains: Mycology stains are diagnostic tests that are used to diagnose onychomycosis. A sample of the affected nail is taken and stained with special dyes to highlight the fungal elements. This test is quick and easy to perform, but it is not as accurate as fungal culture.
7. Nail Matrix Biopsy: Nail matrix biopsy is a diagnostic test that is used to diagnose onychomycosis. A small piece of the nail matrix (the area under the nail where the nail is formed) is removed and examined under a microscope to look for the presence of fungal elements. This test is more invasive than other diagnostic tests and is only used when other tests have been inconclusive.

In conclusion, there are several diagnostic tests that can be used to diagnose onychomycosis. Clinical examination, fungal culture, and direct microscopy are the most commonly used tests. The choice of test will depend on the severity of the infection, the underlying medical conditions of the patient, and the results of previous tests. The most accurate test is fungal culture

Treatment

Here are some of the main treatments for onychophosis:

1. Topical medications: Over-the-counter creams, gels, and ointments containing urea or salicylic acid can be applied directly to the affected nails to soften and reduce the thickness. These medications help to break down the thick, keratin buildup and allow for easier trimming of the nails. However, it may take several months for the nails to become thinner and for the results to be noticeable.
2. Antifungal medications: If a fungal infection is the underlying cause of onychophosis, topical or oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. Topical antifungal medications, such as terbinafine or ciclopirox, are applied directly to the affected nails. Oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or fluconazole, are taken as a pill and work by killing the fungus from the inside out. Antifungal medications may take several months to fully eliminate the infection and improve the appearance of the nails.
3. Debridement: Debridement, or the removal of the thickened, affected portions of the nails, can be performed by a podiatrist or dermatologist. This procedure can be done using a variety of methods, including cutting, filing, or using a chemical solution to dissolve the thickened nail. Debridement can provide immediate relief and improved appearance, but repeated treatments may be necessary to fully resolve the onychophosis.
4. Surgical procedures: In severe cases of onychophosis, surgical procedures may be necessary to remove the affected nails. This can be done through a partial or complete nail avulsion, where the nail is surgically removed and the underlying matrix (the part of the nail bed that produces the nail) is destroyed to prevent regrowth of the affected nail. Surgical procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia and may result in temporary pain and swelling, but they can provide a permanent solution to onychophosis.
5. Home remedies: There are also several home remedies that may be helpful in treating onychophosis, including:

• Soaking the affected nails in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes daily to soften the nails and make them easier to trim.
• Trimming the nails regularly and keeping them well-groomed to prevent further thickening and infection.
• Wearing shoes that provide adequate support and protection to prevent trauma to the nails.
• Maintaining good hygiene, including washing the feet daily and keeping them dry, to prevent fungal infections.

6. Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle changes can also help prevent onychophosis from developing or worsening. These changes may include:

• Wearing shoes that fit well and provide adequate support to prevent trauma to the nails.
• Maintaining good hygiene, including washing the feet daily and keeping them dry, to prevent fungal infections.
• Avoiding tight hosiery and socks that can constrict the toes and cause trauma to the nails.
• Keeping the toenails trimmed and well-groomed to prevent further thickening and infection.
• Managing underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, that can increase the risk of onychophosis.

References