Suzanne L. Mancherian, DPM

Podiatrist located in Los Angeles, CA & Glendale, CA

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Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment Q & A

by Suzanne L. Mancherian, DPM

What causes toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is caused when fungal bodies called dermatophytes invade the area under the toenail and cause an infection. The area under the nail is protected and kept warm and moist by shoes and socks, providing ideal growing conditions for the fungus and making toenail fungus especially hard to treat. The fungus that causes toenail infections can typically be found in damp areas like public pools, locker room floors, showers and pedicure salons.

What kinds of symptoms do toenail fungal infections cause?

Initially, the fungus will cause a yellowish or whitish discoloration to form under the nail. Over time, the discoloration will spread to the remainder of the nail, and the nail will become brittle and ragged. Infected nails can cause pain and itching, with pain increasing when pressure is applied or when wearing shoes. Fungal infections can occur more commonly among people with diabetes or other conditions that impair circulation and make it more difficult for the immune system to fight off infections. People with a family or personal history of toenail infections are also more likely to become infected.

How is laser toenail fungus removal performed?

Toenail fungus can be especially stubborn to treat successfully because it extends into the deeper layers of tissue beneath the protective nail plate. Laser treatment for toenail fungus uses a special laser designed to transmit focused energy deep below the skin, targeting the fungal bodies and destroying them at their roots. The Laser Genesis by Cutera provides optimized laser treatment for toenail fungus by using strong bursts of energy in a delivery system that is FDA-approved for toenail fungus treatment, so patients can experience better results than many other types of treatments. Depending on the severity of the toenail fungus, the laser can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatments for maximum results.

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