Onychomycosis(a-knee-co-my-co-sis)

I decided I would try to share some information on common nail diseases and disorders throughout this blog.
Onychomycosis is one of them. Also known as tinea unguium, this is a contagious infection of the nail caused by the same fungal organisms  which cause ringworm of the skin. It can result in discoloration, thickening, chalkiness, or crumbling of the nails and is often treated by powerful oral medications which, rarely, can cause severe side effects including liver failure. Mild onychomycosis sometimes responds to a combination of topical anti-fungal medication, sometimes applied as special medicinal nail lacquer, and periodic filing of the nail surface. Tea tree oil is also an effective treatment.
Onychomycosis is the most common nail infection, it past easily from person to person through improperly cleaned and sanitized tools, and pedicure thrones in nail salons. Please be sure your nail salons are properly cleaning their equipment. This is a very difficult infection to get rid of. 

*all information can be found on wikipedia.com*