There is a recent buzz about the use of laser for curing fungus toenails-but does it actually work? Before answering the question let’s talk about fungus toenails. Fungal toenails are caused by a number of organisms-the same ones that result in athlete’s foot. Fungal toenails have a variety of appearances. They can be thick with discoloration (usually black or yellow) and can be streaked as well. Usually there is dead skin build up under the toenail. It is estimated that a staggering number of Americans are afflicted with fungus of the nails-over 23 million?
With the numbers so great, it is no wonder that companies are on the fast track to find a cure. Within the past five years claims are popping up in newspapers, on radio and on the internet by some doctors can cure fungus with laser treatments. A recent article in the New York Times has shed light on the subject. In the article entitled, False Start on a Laser Remedy for Fungus basically states that the claims for a cure are far too optimistic. One laser manufacturer basically jumped the gun and made claims about curing fungal toenails before it was approved by the FDA.
Treating fungal toenails with laser is highly questionable. The nail growth tissue is literally made of millions of cells and directing the laser beam in the vicinity of the nail cells does not guarantee that all the cells will be treated. Now let’s assume that the laser reaches the nail cells-what assurances are there that the laser beam will kill the offending fungal organisms-there are none. In addition no official settings or treatment protocols have been established by the FDA.
So what’s the rush for claiming that laser effectively treats fungal toenails? Some companies and some doctors are eager to get a piece of the billion-dollar-plus market. If you suspect fungus toenails-here are some practical suggestions. First I suggest that you a see a podiatrist. There are simple tests that can be performed (toenails scrapings-called PAS tests) that accurately determine if you have fungal toenails and what organisms are involved. Certain conditions may mimic the appearance of fungus-injury to the nail yeast and bacterial infection is just a few.
The following are some treatment suggestions:
- Topical treatments-Penlac® is a FDA approved nail lacquer for treating fungal toenails-The treatment is relatively safe but the downsides are that it is costly and is effective in curing toenails-less than 30%.
- Over-the counter-topical treatments such as FFN®. This is a new topical medication that contains the same ingredients as the oral medication. It is slower acting than the oral medications but it is much safer and less expensive.
- Home remedies-there many home remedies for treating fungal nails. As long as “they do no harm”-they can be tried. One popular treatment is the use of Vicks Vapor Rub®-applied to affected nails daily. I’m not sure that it works but it is inexpensive and safe.
- The most aggressive treatment is oral medication such as Lamisil tablets. Lamisil is by far the most effective agent for resolving fungal toenails. Lamisil is safe as long as the FDA guidelines are followed. Lamisil can exacerbate liver disorders so it is necessary to have liver screening done before being placed on the medication.
So to answer the question-does laser work for curing fungal toenails?-My input is that I would discourage this type of treatment. It is not FDA approved for this condition and it is expensive-and most insurances will not cover this procedure.