The Difference Between Toenail Psoriasis and Toenail Fungus

Toenail changes like discoloration, thickening, or crumbling can be concerning, and two common culprits are toenail psoriasis and toenail fungus. While these conditions share similar symptoms, they have distinct causes, treatments, and implications for your overall health. Accurately identifying the condition affecting your nails is crucial for effective treatment.

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Andrew McCall and his expert team specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of foot and toenail disorders. If you notice changes to your toenails, it’s best to avoid the guesswork and schedule a visit for a comprehensive evaluation. 

Toenail psoriasis overview

Toenail psoriasis is related to a dysfunction of the immune system. This autoimmune condition happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy nail cells, causing abnormal growth and noticeable nail changes. 

It’s linked with skin psoriasis, a long-term skin issue that can be quite painful and requires expert management. If you have skin psoriasis, you’re at an increased risk of developing nail psoriasis. In fact, roughly 80% of people with skin psoriasis develop nail involvement at some point.

The symptoms of toenail psoriasis include:

• Nail thickening 
• Pitting or small dents on the nail surface
• Discoloration, such as yellow or brown spots
• Separation of the nail from the nailbed

Unlike toenail fungus, psoriasis isn’t caused by an infection. It’s a chronic condition that often requires long-term management to control symptoms.

What is toenail fungus?

Fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments readily infect the feet and toenails. Communal areas like showers at the pool or gym are perfect breeding grounds for warts and foot and nail fungus. 

While toenail fungus affects the way the nail looks, there’s no need to feel embarrassed and put off getting evaluation and treatment. The longer toenail fungus remains untreated, the more difficult the fungus is to eradicate. 

Signs of toenail fungus include:

• Thickened, brittle nails
• Yellow, white, or green discoloration
• Crumbling or flaking edges
• A foul odor emanating from the nail

Unlike psoriasis, toenail fungus is contagious and can spread to other nails or to people in close contact. This makes treatment even more essential. 

Toenail psoriasis and toenail fungus: Key differences

While both conditions share signs like discoloration and thickening, their underlying causes and treatment differ. Making an accurate diagnosis requires a professional evaluation. At Alpine Foot and Ankle, Dr. McCall uses diagnostic techniques, such as nail biopsies or fungal cultures, to determine the exact cause of your nail changes.

Effective treatments for each condition

Treatment for toenail psoriasis centers around managing the underlying autoimmune disorder. Topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, or systemic medications can reduce inflammation and slow abnormal nail growth.

For toenail fungus, antifungal treatments are the primary approach. These may include topical creams, oral antifungal medications, or laser therapy to eradicate the infection. Early intervention improves treatment outcomes significantly.

Expert care for optimal foot health

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with toenail psoriasis or fungus, professional care is key to receiving an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. The team Alpine Foot and Ankle is dedicated to restoring foot and toenail health.

Contact Alpine Foot and Ankle today to schedule a consultation. With locations in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Alpine, Wyoming, we’re here to provide expert care for all of your podiatric needs.