Name of the Condition

• Tinea unguium
• Also known as onychomycosis or fungal nail infection.

Summary

• Tinea unguium is a common fungal infection that affects the nails, typically leading to discoloration, thickening, and separation of the nail from the nail bed.

Causes

• Caused by dermatophyte fungi, yeasts, or non-dermatophyte molds invading the nail bed, matrix, or plate.

Risk Factors

• Increased age, exposure to damp environments, compromised immune systems, diabetes, nail injuries, and a history of athlete's foot.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include thickened nails, white or yellow-brown discoloration, brittle or crumbly texture, and possible separation from the nail bed.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosed through clinical examination, nail clippings, or a KOH (potassium hydroxide) test and fungal culture.

Treatment Options

• Antifungal medications, both oral (e.g., terbinafine, itraconazole) and topical (e.g., ciclopirox), are used to treat the infection. In some cases, laser treatment or surgical nail removal may be necessary.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis is generally good, especially with prompt treatment. Nails may take several months to a year to return to normal appearance. Regular follow-up is important to ensure resolution and prevent recurrence.

Complications

• If untreated, it can lead to permanent nail damage, pain, secondary bacterial infections, and spread to other areas or individuals.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain proper foot hygiene, keep feet dry, use antifungal powders, wear breathable footwear, and avoid sharing personal items like nail clippers.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical help if you notice persistent changes in nail color or texture, experience pain or discomfort, or if over-the-counter treatments are ineffective.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): www.aad.org
• Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Accurately code by considering the specific location and type of fungal infection.
• Avoid errors by double-checking for additional skin or foot conditions that may also need coding.