Why carry out this study?

Imaging methods to determine the penetration of topical antifungal agents through mycotic nails can provide useful insights into whether drug distribution is sufficient to result in treatment success.

We applied a quantitative method, termed matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry imaging–Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (MALDI-FTICR) imaging, to describe the penetration profile of amorolfine within the nail compared with three other antifungal compounds (ciclopirox, naftifine, and tioconazole).

What was learned from the study?

Although amorolfine, ciclopirox, naftifine, and tioconazole had similar distribution profiles in the nail, these antifungals reached different multiples of their respective minimum inhibitory concentrations toward Trichophyton rubrum.

MALDI-FTICR is a valid method to evaluate penetration of the nail plate by different antifungal compounds, and this technique will, therefore, assist in the development of new formulations to treat onychomycosis.

Clinical studies are required to determine whether the effects observed ex vivo translate to differences in treatment success.