The effect of toenail onychomycosis on patient quality of life
- 1 October 1997
- journal article
- Published by Wiley in International Journal of Dermatology
- Vol. 36 (10) , 754-756
- https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-4362.1997.00163.x
Abstract
Background Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection of the toenails which has historically been regarded as a cosmetic problem. A previous study has suggested that this is not the case and that toenail and fingernail onychomycosis adversely impacts patient quality of life (QOL). Methods A survey was used to self‐assess the physical symptoms and psychosocial dimensions of toenail onychomycosis in 93 patients. Positive responses scored one point each, and points were summed for each patient. Results Ninety‐two per cent of patients reported experiencing negative psychosocial and/or physical effects. Forty‐four per cent indicated that their toenails had a negative effect on their self‐image, and 41% reported experiencing pain or discomfort as a result of onychomycosis. Conclusions Toenail onychomycosis has a significant impact on the overall QOL of patients, and should be evaluated further to develop guidelines for total patient care.Keywords
This publication has 2 references indexed in Scilit:
- Quality of life of persons with onychomycosisQuality of Life Research, 1993
- The effect of skin disease on self imageBritish Journal of Dermatology, 1978