Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails. It is most commonly caused by the dermatophytes, Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton interdigitale. Many of the remaining cases are caused by yeast and nondermatophyte moulds (eg, Aspergillus, Scopulariopsis, Fusarium). Toenails are much more likely to be infected than fingernails.

The symptoms include thickening, patches, and white or yellowish discoloration of nails. The nail may become deformed or get separated from the nail bed (onycholysis). At first, onychomycosis appears to be only a cosmetic concern. Without treatment, however, the toenails can become so thick that they press against the inside of the shoes, causing pressure, irritation, and pain. Onychomycosis must be distinguished from other disorders affecting nails, such as psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, onychogryphosis, bacterial infection especially pseudomonas aeruginosa etc.

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