Nail infections

The increasing prevalence of onychomycoses, along with the wider range of organisms now recognized as potential pathogens, necessitates the accurate laboratory identification of the specific fungus involved. Although the majority of infections still are caused by dermatophyte and Candida species, many other nondermatophyte molds, such as Scytalidium dimidiatum have been shown to be common agents of disease in certain geographic areas. It is well recognized that infections by nondermatophytes such as Scopulariopsis, Acremonium, and Aspergillus species occur worldwide. The availability of a range of new antifungal agents with various spectra of activity means that the exact identification of the pathogen is necessary to select the optimum treatment.