Recurrent proximal white subungual onychomycosis associated with a defect of the polymorphonuclear chemotaxis
Gianni, C.; Cerri, A.; Capsoni, F.; Ongari, A.M.; Rossini, P.; Crosti, C.
European Journal of Dermatology Ejd 9(5): 390-392
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 1167-1122 PMID: 10417445 Document Number: 498872
A case of recurrent proximal white subungual onychomycosis (PWSO) is reported in a 17-year-old woman from Italy, who presented in 1989 with total-proximal leukonychia affecting almost all the toenails and some fingernails. Trichophyton rubrum was cultured from nail scrapings. The infection resolved after treatment with fluconazole (50 mg/day for 2 months) but recurred 3 years later and then again 2 years later. The episodes were treated with itraconazole and fluconazole. Tests indicated that the patient had a defect of polymorphonuclear chemotaxis. The association between PWSO and a defect of neutrophil chemotaxis indicates a role of polymorphonuclear leucocyte functions in the defence mechanisms of the host affected by dermatophytosis.