Tinea pedis: diagnosis and management

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Description/Abstract

Dermatophyte onychomycosis is a common condition, particularly in the elderly and immunosuppressed. As these sections of
the population are set to increase, it is likely that the prevalence of dermatophytic nail infection will also increase. Advances in
antifungal therapy, with the introduction of newer and safer drugs such as terbinafine and itraconazole, have improved out-
comes significantly. However , around a quarter of patients will suffer reinfection or recurrence in the subsequent months. The
possible reasons for this are considered. Data from recently published studies have demonstrated an increased mycological
and clinical cure rate using a combination of topical and oral antifungal agents. This approach may be a cost-effective means
of improving outcomes for patients with more resistant nail disease.