In:
Folia Medica, Pensoft Publishers, Vol. 64, No. 6 ( 2022-12-31), p. 922-931
Abstract:
Introduction : Onychomycosis is a frequent nail disorder, accounting for up to 50% of all nail problems. Treatment of onychomycosis is expensive and requires a long time of antifungal medications. Consequently, a proper and faster diagnosis is necessary. Especially for those patients with diabetes mellitus, where onychomycosis is among the most significant predictors of foot ulcer and possible severe complications. Aim : To compare the sensitivity, specificity, and turnaround time between direct microscopy, culture, histology, and real-time PCR. In addition, to compare the frequency and etiology of onychomycosis in patients with and without DM. Materials and methods : This study included 102 patients, divided into two groups. One group consisted of patients with diabetes mellitus and the other – without diabetes. Nail samples were collected and examined by direct KOH microscopic examination, culture, histology, and real-time PCR. Results : From the 102 patients with clinical onychomycosis, positive KOH was found in 38 (37.3%). Culture – 82 out of 102 samples (80.4%) were positive for dermatophytes, yeasts, and/or NDM. Positive histology samples were 32 (41.6%). The PCR was positive in 57 (55.9%) out of the 102. We discovered that there is no significant statistical difference in the etiology of the fungal infections between the two groups. Conclusions : All mycological investigations have their place in the diagnosis of onychomycosis. Direct microscopy, culture, and histology are useful methods for clinicians to diagnose and follow up the post-treatment period. The advantages of RT-PCR include obtaining results faster and accurately identifying fungi, thus becoming more valued in the diagnosis of OM.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1314-2143
,
0204-8043
DOI:
10.3897/folmed.64.e85486
DOI:
10.3897/folmed.64.e85486.figure1
DOI:
10.3897/folmed.64.e85486.figure2
DOI:
10.3897/folmed.64.e85486.figure3
DOI:
10.3897/folmed.64.e85486.figure4
Language:
Unknown
Publisher:
Pensoft Publishers
Publication Date:
2022
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2593223-8