B E Elewski1. 1. Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection of the toenails which has historically been regarded as a cosmetic problem. A previous study has suggested that this is not the case and that toenail and fingernail onychomycosis adversely impacts patient quality of life (QOL). METHODS: A survey was used to self-assess the physical symptoms and psychosocial dimensions of toenail onychomycosis in 93 patients. Positive responses scored one point each, and points were summed for each patient. RESULTS: Ninety-two per cent of patients reported experiencing negative psychosocial and/or physical effects. Forty-four per cent indicated that their toenails had a negative effect on their self-image, and 41% reported experiencing pain or discomfort as a result of onychomycosis. CONCLUSIONS: Toenail onychomycosis has a significant impact on the overall QOL of patients, and should be evaluated further to develop guidelines for total patient care.
BACKGROUND:Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection of the toenails which has historically been regarded as a cosmetic problem. A previous study has suggested that this is not the case and that toenail and fingernail onychomycosis adversely impacts patient quality of life (QOL). METHODS: A survey was used to self-assess the physical symptoms and psychosocial dimensions of toenail onychomycosis in 93 patients. Positive responses scored one point each, and points were summed for each patient. RESULTS: Ninety-two per cent of patients reported experiencing negative psychosocial and/or physical effects. Forty-four per cent indicated that their toenails had a negative effect on their self-image, and 41% reported experiencing pain or discomfort as a result of onychomycosis. CONCLUSIONS:Toenail onychomycosis has a significant impact on the overall QOL of patients, and should be evaluated further to develop guidelines for total patient care.
Authors: Minh Lam; Matthew L Dimaano; Patricia Oyetakin-White; Mauricio A Retuerto; Jyotsna Chandra; Pranab K Mukherjee; Mahmoud A Ghannoum; Kevin D Cooper; Elma D Baron Journal: Antimicrob Agents Chemother Date: 2014-03-10 Impact factor: 5.191