Toenail Pathology

Toenail problems are one of the most common complaints seen in podiatry. Although toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is the most common cause of toenail pathology, several other things can cause toenails to have an unusual appearance. Some of the less common causes of toenail pathology include trauma, bacterial infection, melanoma, vitamin deficiencies, use of certain medications (such as chemotherapy or certain antibiotics), Psoriasis, other systemic conditions (such as heart disease), heavy metal toxicity and overuse of nail polish or other cosmetic lacquers.

Depending on the cause of your toenail problem, we can provide you with treatment options that may help resolve your issue. Proper diagnosis may require a nail biopsy or even a skin biopsy to determine the most appropriate treatment. Your treatment plan will be customized to you and your needs.

Some commonly asked questions about toenails and onychomycosis:


Yes. Whether the best treatment is regular debridement (clipping) and maintenance of your thick or discolored toenails, or treatment with medicine or surgery, there is always a reason your toenails appear the way they do. Sometimes those changes in your nails can be a sign of another problem in your foot or body.


Yes. Although it is unlikely for fungal toenails to cause a systemic infection in anyone who isn’t severely immunocompromised, other toenail infections, such as ones caused by bacteria, can lead to more serious systemic infections.

Although cancer is very rare in the feet and toes, if it is found, it is essential that it is treated immediately. There are other, much more common, causes of discolored lines and spots on the toenails such as Melanonychia or hematoma, but it is important for you to have these areas evaluated by your podiatrist.

No. Although onychomycosis is a very difficult condition to treat, there are several therapies that may help you get rid of your toenail fungus depending on the severity or the infection. Some treatments are better for certain patients. We can help you decide which is right for you.

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