Often, though, they’re caused by a fungal infection. These infections most often affect the toes, causing nails to thicken, crumble and become discoloured. The effect isn’t just cosmetic, though.

Even though most of the world's described 157,000 fungal species are only visible with a microscope, these organisms are essential to our ecosystems, our societies and economies. All the benefits ...

Mycosis nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the nail unit. It is more common in the toenails because fungi thrive in warm, moist environments like your shoes.