Diagnosis: Tinea unguium
Description: White fungus on the nail surface
Morphology: Nail dystrophy
Site: Nails
Sex: M
Age: 56
Type: Clinical
Submitted By: Ian McColl
Differential DiagnosisHistory: A white fungus on the surface of the nail like this is usually due to Trichophyton Mentagrophytes.It can be scraped off with a blade revealing normal nail underneath.This is one of the few examples of a fungal nail infection where topical therapy may clear it.Usually tinea unguium requires oral therapy such as Griseofulvin or Lamasil for at least 3 months.