What is the most common type of disease affecting nails?

Fungal infections are indeed the most prevalent type of disease affecting nails, specifically conditions like onychomycosis, which is a fungal infection that can lead to discoloration, thickening, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making nails, especially toenails, a common target. The occurrence of fungal infections is further exacerbated by factors such as poor hygiene, living in humid climates, and wearing tight-fitting shoes that trap moisture.

This prevalence is supported by statistics indicating that fungal infections account for a significant majority of all nail disorders, far exceeding instances of bacterial or viral infections. While bacterial infections and allergic reactions can occur, they are less common as primary nail diseases. Viral infections affecting nails are quite rare, and the primary viral concern regarding nails is typically related to warts, which are not exclusively defined as nail diseases.

Thus, the recognition of fungal infections as the most common type of nail disease is rooted in their high incidence rate and the environmental conditions that favor their development in the nail area.