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Arch Dermatol. 2000;136:1162-1164.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

IN THE ARTICLE written by Lawry et al,¹ "Methods for Diagnosing Onychomycosis: A Comparative Study and Review of the Literature," the authors conclude that pathology periodic acid–Schiff stain (PATHPAS) is the most sensitive method for diagnosing onychomycosis. Although we disagree that PATHPAS is the most sensitive diagnostic tool, we agree with their premise that the methods for diagnosing onychomycosis clearly need to be improved. In the past decade, there have been significant advances in the development of effective and safe drugs for onychomycosis. However, diagnostic methods lag behind therapeutic advances.

Onychomycosis is very common in the United States and has probably increased in prevalence during the past several decades.^2-3 Indeed, about one half of all patients presenting to dermatologists' offices for nail disorders have onychomycosis.^2-3 One recent study showed the incidence of onychomycosis in a population in northeast Ohio to be 13.7% and almost 50% in those more than 70 . . . [Full Text of this Article]

STANDARD DIAGNOSTIC METHODS

Collection of Specimens

Direct Microscopy

Fungal Cultures

COMMENT

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