Improving Cure Rates in Onychomycosis. Issue 6 (November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gupta, Aditya K.; Cernea, Maria; Foley, Kelly A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of cutaneous medicine and surgery. Volume 20:Issue 6(2016:Nov./Dec.)
• Page Start: 517
• Page End: 531
• Publication Date: 2016-11
• Subjects: tinea unguium -- antifungal medication -- dermatophytes -- complete cure -- mycological cure -- recurrence; Dermatology -- Periodicals; Skin -- Diseases -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Skin -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Dermatology -- Canada -- Periodicals; Skin -- Diseases -- Treatment -- Canada -- Periodicals; Skin -- Surgery -- Canada -- Periodicals; 616.5005
• DOI: 10.1177/1203475416653734
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1203-4754

Abstract

Background: Onychomycosis is a persistent fungal nail infection that is notoriously hard to treat. Approximately 20% to 25% of patients with onychomycosis do not respond to treatment, and 10% to 53% of patients relapse. As such, successful treatment is imperative for long-term disease management. Objective: To identify ways to improve cure rates for onychomycosis. Method: The literature on onychomycosis treatment and recurrence was reviewed to summarize treatment approaches and suggest strategies to increase cure rates. Results and Conclusion: To improve treatment success in onychomycosis, we suggest the following measures be followed: (1) onychomycosis must be correctly diagnosed, (2) the treatment regimen should be tailored to the individual patient, (3) the efficacy of antifungals must be maximized, and (4) recurrence must be prevented.