Case report: Cure for foot fungus?

Numerous patients consult us at our Clinic with regard to fungus (self-diagnosed) on their feet. The problem has often been present for a long time. Sometimes the rash is between toes, but another common site is the nails. While early intertriginous, itchy dermatitis usually responds to an antifungal cream, lesions on or under nails are a challenge. Oral medications—a last resort—can have systemic side effects. Read: Case report: a wart problem Few products claim effectiveness for nail fungus. Jublia—a paint-on product requiring application daily for a year—is expensive and only works about 50% of the time. Often, nail removal is necessary to enable any product to work. A recent patient—a 27-year-old fair-skinned man with no underlying illness—was seen for a secondary nail issue. His immediate, recent concern, was a black area which had appeared adjacent to one toenail a few days previously. He wondered about melanoma (see picture). I was certain that the recent black area on one toe was the result of his socks catching prominent nails producing a tiny bleed, and was now resolving. He reported having searched the internet for possible treatment for his nail fungus, having been prescribed Jublia and several other over-the-counter and prescription medications without success. Read: Case report: two-step TB testing He had finally found a “miracle cure” for fungus online, which he had been using for a few weeks, with perceived great success (see picture). His solution to his long-standing nail problem, was interesting. Unlike other treatments, regular application of Vicks VapourRub was perceived as continuing to eliminate his nail fungus. He was quite adamant about effectiveness. Things didn’t look all that great to me, but I didn’t discourage him and look forward to future results. If the patient has found an effective treatment, I thought it worthwhile to pass on. I have my doubts. Dr. Robert Dickson is a family physician in Hamilton. This report is based on a real case from Dr. Dickson’s files. Read: Case report: a difficult arm lesion

Case report: Cure for foot fungus?

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