Removal of Fungal Pathogens from Fingernails through Hyperthermal Treatments: A Mathematical Foundation in the Field of Computational Perspective

Mohammad  Junaid; Pabel Shahrear; Farhan Chowdhury Ruhel

doi:10.37934/arnht.31.1.126150

Authors

Mohammad Junaid Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet-3114, Bangladesh
Pabel Shahrear Department of Mathematics, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet-3114, Bangladesh
Farhan Chowdhury Ruhel Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet-3114, Bangladesh

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37934/arnht.31.1.126150

Keywords:

Dermatophyte Eradication, Onychomycosis Pathogenesis, Hyperthermal Nail Treatment, In-Home Hot Water Therapy, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Heat Transfer in Nail Tissues

Abstract

Onychomycosis (OM) afflicts a staggering 2% to 13% of the global populace, casting a long shadow over quality of life. Traditional treatments, be they systemic or topical, are fraught with challenges like poor permeability and undesirable side effects. In this groundbreaking study, we explore the mystical realm of natural hyperthermal treatments, specifically the mesmerizing dance of stepwise hot water and heated contact disks, as a novel remedy for OM. Harnessing the sophisticated wizardry of COMSOL Multiphysics®, we conjured a lifelike human figure nail model, comprising the nail plate, nail bed, and inner muscle layers. Through this intricate simulation, we meticulously observed nail temperatures during thermal applications, set at the enchanting heats of 70°C, 80°C, 90°C, and 100°C, thereby mapping out temperature profiles and deciphering the secrets of heat propagation. The results of this inquiry are nothing short of magical: stepwise hyperthermal treatments summon peak temperatures within the nail plate, powerful enough to vanquish fungal foes while preserving the sanctity of surrounding tissues. Intriguingly, our findings elevate hot water treatments as the supreme choice, proving more potent and safer than their hot disk counterparts for the treatment of onychomycosis-ravaged nails. Furthermore, for the soothing aftercare of these hyperthermal sessions, the gentle caress of running water at an optimal temperature significantly enhances patient comfort and diminishes the risk of thermal harm. This exotic approach not only unveils a cost-effective and accessible alternative to conventional OM therapies but also holds the enchanting promise of home-based administration, liberating patients from the clutches of medical expenses. This method heralds a spectacular evolution in the treatment of onychomycosis, blending scientific marvel with practical enchantment.

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Author Biographies

Mohammad Junaid, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet-3114, Bangladesh

md.junaid.jkr@gmail.com

Pabel Shahrear, Department of Mathematics, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet-3114, Bangladesh

shahrear-mat@sust.edu

Farhan Chowdhury Ruhel, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet-3114, Bangladesh

farhanruhel@gmail.com

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