Nail Deformity Can Best Be Treated With Correct Diagnosis

Many patients are concerned because they have thick yellow toenails that are deformed and difficult to cut. Nail deformity has many causes including: trauma, psoriasis, fungal infection, thyroid disease, and lung disease. Correct diagnosis of the toenail deformity is essential for proper treatment.

Patients often ask about taking Lamisil Tablets for their nail deformity. Lamisil, and other oral anti-fungals, can be an excellent treatment for deformed toenails due to fungal infection; however, oral anti-fungals are not effective for other causes of nail disease. There are several topical products now available to reduce nail deformity that is not caused by fungus.

A thorough history & physical along with a nail biopsy is the best way to diagnose the reason for the nail deformity.

If the deformity is caused by fungal infection, oral anti-fungal agents, like Lamisil, may be a good choice. When prescribing oral anti-fungals it is important to monitor the patient’s liver functions, much the same way as patients who are on diabetes and/or cholesterol medications. If the patient’s liver functions are normal, oral anti-fungal agents are very safe medications. For patients who cannot take oral anti-fungals, topical treatments are available.

If you have thick yellow nails, call CKPA for an evaluation & treatment options.