Blood Test Requirements for Fungal Nail Infection: GOT and GPT Explained - Dermatology

More Info

---

When it comes to diagnosing and managing a fungal nail infection, commonly known as onychomycosis, blood tests are not typically the primary diagnostic tool. Instead, the diagnosis is usually made through clinical examination and direct testing of the nail samples. However, in certain cases, blood tests may be requested to rule out underlying conditions or to assess liver function, especially if antifungal medications that can affect the liver are being considered.

GOT (Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase), also known as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), and GPT (Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase), known as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), are enzymes that are primarily found in the liver. They are commonly measured in blood tests to evaluate liver function. Elevated levels of these enzymes can indicate liver damage or inflammation, which is crucial to consider if you are prescribed systemic antifungal medications, as these can have hepatotoxic effects.

For a fungal nail infection, the following points should be considered regarding blood tests:
1. GOT and GPT Levels: While measuring GOT and GPT can provide insights into liver health, they are not specific to fungal infections. If you are being treated with oral antifungal medications, monitoring these liver enzymes is important to ensure that your liver is functioning properly and not adversely affected by the medication.

2. Other Blood Tests: Depending on your overall health and medical history, your doctor may also consider additional tests. For instance, a complete blood count (CBC) can help assess your general health and detect a variety of disorders, such as infections or anemia. However, these tests are not specific for fungal infections.

3. Direct Testing for Fungal Infection: The most reliable way to diagnose a fungal nail infection is through direct examination of the nail clippings or debris under a microscope or culture. This can confirm the presence of fungal elements and help identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection.

4. Treatment Considerations: If you are diagnosed with a fungal nail infection, treatment options may include topical antifungal treatments or systemic antifungal medications. The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of the infection, the type of fungus involved, and your overall health.

5. Follow-Up: After treatment, follow-up appointments may include repeat examinations and possibly additional tests to ensure that the infection has cleared. Monitoring liver function through GOT and GPT may continue if you were on systemic antifungal therapy.

In summary, while GOT and GPT tests can be part of the evaluation process, they are not the only tests you may need. The focus should primarily be on the direct assessment of the fungal infection itself. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to determine the most appropriate tests based on your specific situation. They can provide guidance on the necessity of blood tests and any other evaluations needed for your condition.