Fusarium Species
Commonly found in soil, fusarium species are opportunistic fungi. Toenails and eye infections (onychomycosis and keratitis, respectively) have been linked to most fusarium infections. Most human infections arise from a combination of conditions that weaken the immune system. However, immunocompetent humans are just as susceptible to many saprophytic and plant infections as any other host.
Onychomycosis, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum, is rising. Fusarium nail infection may be spread either by injection or inhalation of spores. Infected nails exhibiting dystrophic abnormalities are more likely to be affected by onychomycosis caused by Fusarium.
Onychomycosis is more frequent in toenails than fingernails because of their more vulnerable nature, such as repeated damage, slower development, and a thicker nail plate. In a recent study, toenails were infected with Fusarium onychomycosis at a rate of 46.5 percent, followed by fingernails at a rate of 30.23 percent. Toenails constantly exposed to moist environments and frequent use of enclosed footwear limit blood supply to the underlying tissues. Onychomycosis of the proximal subungual follicle caused by Fusarium spp. is more common in those with diabetes and vascular diseases, and most are reported from HIV patients. These factors may contribute to an inadequate response to antifungal therapy.
