Onychomycosis (nail fungus) is one of the most commonly diagnosed foot conditions, affecting 10-12 percent of the population1. This prevalent and persistent disorder results in thick, jagged nails that can injure surrounding skin, spawning secondary infections and ulcers. Diabetics are especially at risk with a 34 percent chance of developing fungal nail infection and an increased instance of other complications.2 In those age 70 and up, 50 percent are expected to develop onychomycosis.3
Currently a $1.6 billion market in the United States4, the treatment of nail fungus has been challenging. The previous standard of care has been oral antifungal medications, which carry side effects including the potential for hepatotoxicity (chemical driven liver damage) and a high failure rate. Topical treatments have also resulted in limited success due to their inability to properly penetrate the nail.
Laser therapies like Candela’s Gentle Pro Nd:YAG Laser allow physicians to treat onychomycosis symptoms locally without the systemic effects of oral medications. All infectious agents, except prions, can be killed by heat, which makes laser therapy an extremely promising new option for onychomycosis sufferers.
With its precision 5 mm handpiece, the Gentle Pro Nd:YAG Laser raises the temperature under the nail to a level that’s inhospitable to fungus in order to increase the appearance of clear nails.
The new Syneron Candela Max pro Laser is now available at Biotech Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Spa.