White superficial onychomycosis defines a subtype of an infection commonly appearing on toenails. It is caused by fungi and appears as white spots starting on the nail plate and spreading to the nail bed. The fungi might resemble powder when the condition first surfaces and typically causes the toenail to become flaky. White superficial onychomycosis can be treated with oral and topical antifungal medication, or surgery in some cases.

Typical early symptoms of white superficial onychomycosis consist of a white discoloration on the top of the nail. The nail might become thick, split, and cause pain while wearing shoes that crowd the affected toenail. About 10 percent of all fungal infections affecting toenails or fingernail are defined as white superficial onychomycosis, which occurs more often in adult men.

Diagnosis of this form of onychomycosis involves clipping a piece of the nail and examining it under a microscope. Other disorders might mimic the appearance of fungi that cause the condition. Some doctors prefer to place the clipped nail fragment into a special container and wait for fungi to grow in the laboratory. The exact type of fungi can be identified as the spores grow.

Treatment of white superficial onychomycosis usually involves oral antifungal medication, which usually cures the disorder within three months. Topical ointments or creams might be used along with the medication, but they generally do not fully penetrate the nail plate to reach the nail bed. Podiatrists commonly suggest combination of the two remedies.

Before modern medications came on the market, white superficial onychomycosis and other forms of the disease presented a challenge for patients. Toenails and fingernails receive very little blood, and older drugs failed to consistently enter the bloodstream. Even with modern medicine, the condition is considered expensive to treat, and white superficial onychomycosis commonly returns. Sometimes surgery is needed to remove the nail and allow topical medication to reach the nail bed.

Patients diagnosed with heart or liver disease should not take oral medications to treat the disorder. Most side effects are deemed minor and might include abdominal pain and nausea. Doctors typically advise patients to avoid community bathing areas, where the fungi might spread.

People who suffer from diabetes are more prone to develop white superficial onychomycosis, along with others who suffer from vascular disorders that cause poor circulation. It is seen more often in men over the age of 60 and in those with a family history of fungal infections. Wearing shoes that restrict air flow to the feet might also allow infection to develop.