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- $Unique_ID{BRK01221}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{What is "Tinea Ungulum"}
- $Subject{nails fungus infections skin subcutaneous tissue tinea ungulum
- toenails onychomycosis fungal infection ringworm fungi dermatophytes
- trichophyton candida psoriasis griseofulvin trichophyton nail dermatophyte}
- $Volume{A-20, L-20}
- $Log{}
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- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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-
- What is "Tinea Ungulum"
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- QUESTION: I have a problem that seems to be destroying my toenails, and am
- looking for a quick solution before they completely disintegrate. The nails
- are thick and dull, and there is a lot of junk under them. Do you know what
- this is and what I can do to stop it?
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-
- ANSWER: It sounds like a type of onychomycosis (fungal infection of the
- nails) to me, sometimes called "tinea ungulum" or "ringworm of the nails".
- This can occur when certain fungi called "dermatophytes," which only attack
- the dead tissues of skin, nails and hair, infect your toe nails. The most
- common type is usually of the Trichophyton family. It might also be a candida
- infection or the result of psoriasis. You need to be certain, as there are
- specific treatments available when the cause is clear, griseofulvin for
- trichophyton, for example. However, there is no quick fix; it will take time
- before the infection can be conquered and your new nail can grow out.
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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