Nanotechnological interventions in dermatophytosis: from oral to topical, a fresh perspective

INTRODUCTION: The dermatophytosis are the infections, which are the most common infections worldwide, with the serious problem of high recurrence. These are characterized by invasion and multiplication of various species of dermatophytes in keratinized tissues that can affect skin, hair, and nails. AREAS COVERED: This article aims to gather information about novel strategies for effective treatment of dermatophytosis by incorporating antifungals into nanoformulations to overcome the limitations of the conventional treatment strategies. Updates related to nanosystems and research progress regarding the animal and clinical studies are also included. The current treatment options for dermatophytosis, along with the marketed formulations and patents, are also highlighted. EXPERT OPINION: For treating dermatophytosis, several therapeutic interventions are available which provide good clinical cure rates, but they have some demerits, including resistance to the antifungal agents and adverse effects associated with them. In recent years, efforts have been documented to incorporate various antifungal agents into novel carriers in order to offer better therapeutic action and overcome the limitations of the conventional treatment strategies for dermatophytosis. The success has been achieved in obtaining these formulations with enhanced antifungal activity, prolonged retention of drug, improved efficacy, increased skin penetration of the drug, and sustained release of drug.