Question
Hello Sir,

I have had a persistent toenail infection for over a month. I've taken both Cephalexin and Ciprofloxacin, without any improvement.  I've seen a podiatrist who wants to do laser surgery to remove part of the nail but that is contingent on the infection subsiding a bit.  I was wondering what types of other medication or other solutions may be followed to improve this infection?

Answer
Hi Brent,

When there is a toenail infection that will not clear, other avenues need to be explored.  Has your Dr. taken a culture to determine the type of infection?  Have you had an x-ray to make sure there is no bone infection of the toe?  Has your Dr. performed a simple drainage of the infection or have you only had antibiotics?

Continuing to throw antibiotics at the problem is not recommended.  Also, Cipro is not recommended for a typical infection of the toe unless the culture warrants its use.  

Please let me know what you have had done.  Also, a second opinion is a wise idea if there is no resolution.  This is typically a common problem.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com

DISCLAIMER:
This information is offered as free advice and as general information. It may not be applicable to the specific questioner and his/her problem.  It is not based on actual knowledge of the questioner or his/her medical history and it cannot and should not be relied upon as definitive medical opinion or advice.  Reliable medical opinion and advice can only be obtained through hands-on physical contact and exam of the patient to establish an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.  No doctor/patient relationship is created or established here and may not be inferred through answers on this site.  The questioner and other readers must consult his/her own doctor before proceeding or implementing any suggestions contained within this document and answers on this site.  The questioner is only to act upon his/her own doctor抯 orders and recommendations. By reading this posting which follows, the reader fully understands and confirms that he/she holds harmless this writer. If this is not fully agreeable to you, the reader, and/or you have not attained the age of 18 years, you hereby are advised to read no further.