Treatment of onychomycosis

Mycosis refers to a fungal infection by a fungus or yeast . In the vast majority of cases, these micro-organisms belong to the species Candida Albicans and we then speak of candidiasis . This type of fungus, usually harmless, evolves naturally in the mucous membranes (vaginal, oral, digestive, cutaneous). When the organism is disturbed and its immunity weakened, this fungus becomes pathogenic and alters the skin or the mucous membrane, hence the name “ opportunistic infections” .

Other fungi like dermatophytes attack hair , skin and nails. These fungal infections are then found at the level of the small and large folds ( inter-toe fold , groin fold). Contagious , fungal infections must be examined by a dermatologist so that the treatment is appropriate.

Depending on the microorganism responsible, several types of fungal infections can be found. When they affect the nails , at the level of the hands or the feet, we speak of onychomycosis.

The big toe is most frequently affected by onychomycosis and dermatophytes are the causative agents. By the way, a dermatophyte infection of the nail is also called ringworm nail , in parallel with the dermatophyte infection of the scalp and hair that defines ringworm .

The little toe is also often prone to mycoses. Onychomycosis of the hands is much less found in consultation than that of the feet.

Nearly 10% of French adults, and particularly the elderly , are affected by this infection. Early management allows it to be treated quickly so that the nail bed is not affected.

The clinical examination carried out by a specialist is essential to differentiate a fungal infection of the nail from other attacks on the nail. Microscopy can confirm the diagnosis.

Athlete ‘s foot or athlete’s foot (also known as ringworm of the feet) promotes the development of toenail fungus .

Taking antibiotics, corticosteroids or immunosuppressants can be the cause of a mycosis.

The presence of a skin break-in such as a wound , for example, will promote the transmission of a fungal infection. Heat , perspiration and humidity are favorable environments for the development of fungal infections . People exercising a sports activity such as swimming for example are more at risk of developing a mycosis of the feet .

Regular wearing of closed shoes promotes perspiration and maceration and thus fungal infections.

The symptomatology varies:

• Redness and swelling around the affected nail
• Yellowing of the nails
• Nail thickening
• Deformation and/or detachment of the nail
• Nail discoloration
• The skin peels under the surface of the nail

The contagiousness of nail fungus is very important and treatment can control it.

The embarrassment can also be of a purely aesthetic nature and push the patient to consult.

In patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes, the lack of treatment can be complicated and lead to bacterial superinfection . Hence the importance of consulting early.

Topical antifungals are usually the first-line treatment for fungal infections.

In cases of resistant onychomycosis and following multiple treatment failures, the laser is a device indicated to get rid of nail fungus (hands or feet).

At Skin Marceau , our dermatologists use the Nd-Yag laser which acts particularly in depth thanks to its long wavelength. The thermal energy delivered by the device destroys an onychomycosis in just 15 minutes. 2 to 4 sessions are enough to permanently eliminate the fungus under the nail .

This treatment is relatively painless and does not damage the skin. No lesions form in the surrounding tissues. The patient feels a slight sensation of warmth and tingling under the nail. In order to prevent the spread of mycosis, we also treat the healthy area , contiguous to the infected one. The nail and the surrounding skin are red after the session, this is a normal reaction.

The Nd-Yag laser offers effective and long-lasting results . The nail gradually regains its original color and a more elegant appearance. You have to wait a few months for final results when the new nail has finished growing back .

To avoid further contamination, we invite you to follow the advice of our specialists.

• wear clean socks after the session
• avoid manicures and pedicures
• Sterilize your equipment used for your nails
• Do not share bath linen
• Cut your nails short

Here are the prices for the treatment of onychomycosis by laser in Paris: