The Challenge of Treatment Until now, fungal nail disease has been difficult to treat. Fungal Nail Disease Fungal nail disease is the most common nail disorder, affecting nearly 11 million Americans. Characteristic features of fungal nail disease include discoloration and thickening of the nail, accumulation of debris under the nail and detachment of the nail plate from the nail bed.
Toenails are the primary site of infection.
Fingernails are affected less frequently and involvement of both fingernails and toenails in the same patient is uncommon. Fungal nail disease can affect people of any age, gender and race. Some evidence indicates that fungal nail disease can be employment-related. Jobs that require individuals to remain on their feet for long periods of time in tight-fitting shoes, such as waiters, policemen, and construction workers, may increase the likelihood of infection. In the most severe cases, the damaged nail can separate from the nail bed, forming a reservoir for secondary infections.