4 Classic Types of Nail Fungus

Nail fungus does not look the same way in every patient. In fact, doctors classify nail fungus infections into four distinct categories based on where the infection begins and how it spreads. The same group of fungi that causes athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm can also infect the nails. Once fungus infects the nails, it can cause discoloration, thickening, deformity, and separation from the nail bed. Although many people use the general term “nail fungus,” the infection can appear very different depending on the type and severity.

Here are the four classic forms of onychomycosis:

1. Distal Subungual Onychomycosis (DSO): Doctors diagnose DSO as the most common type of nail fungus. A dermatophyte called Trichophyton rubrum—the same organism responsible for athlete’s foot—typically causes this infection. The fungus enters beneath the nail plate at the tip of the nail and spreads inward. As it progresses, it turns the nail yellow or white, thickens the nail, and eventually causes brittleness and separation from the nail bed.
2. White Superficial Onychomycosis (WSO): WSO ranks as the second most common form of fungal nail infection. This type affects the top (superficial) layer of the nail plate. Early signs include small white spots on the nail surface. As the infection advances, a chalky white material can cover more of the nail. Because keratin granulations can look similar but are not caused by fungus, doctors often confirm WSO with laboratory testing.
3. Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis (PSO): PSO occurs less frequently but appears more often in individuals with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV. In this form, fungus enters near the cuticle and infects the newly formed nail plate. The infection leads to discoloration and can cause the nail to lift from the nail bed.
4. Candidal Onychomycosis: Candida, a type of yeast, can also infect the nails. This form occurs more commonly in fingernails than toenails, particularly in people who frequently immerse their hands in water. Trauma to the nail often increases susceptibility. Unlike other types of fungal nail infections, candidal onychomycosis may cause pain and inflammation around the nail.

As you can see, tips for healthy feet without nail fungus can be easy to find. Furthermore, if you have caught nail fungus, it can be easily treated using the FDA-approved PinPointe laser. It typically only takes one treatment. Other treatments, like topical solutions and oral medication, are not as effective. Topical solutions have a very low cure rate. This is because the solution does not penetrate all the way through the nail bed.  This is because it can lead to liver toxicity. You would need to have consistent blood tests throughout the course of taking the medication. 

Our nail doctor in Forest Hills, NY, recommends this treatment for toenail fungus. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. Also, there’s no pain. If you have any signs of nail fungus, call us at (800) 672-0625at  our Forest Hills, NY location. Visit our website for more information on our doctors at one of our over 150 locations.