Which of the following is a fungal infection affecting the nails?

Onychomycosis is specifically identified as a fungal infection that impacts the nails. This condition is caused by various fungi, which can enter the nails through small cuts or breaks in the skin, leading to a range of symptoms including discoloration, thickening, and possible separation of the nail from the nail bed. Understanding onychomycosis is essential for nail technicians, as it informs them about potential symptoms they might observe and the importance of proper care and treatment recommendations for clients.

While tinea pedis, or athlete's foot, relates to a fungal infection, it primarily affects the skin on the feet rather than the nails. Pyogenic granuloma is a vascular lesion often mistaken for infection but is not fungal in nature. Onycholysis refers to the separation of the nail from the nail bed, which can be caused by various conditions, including trauma or infection, but does not directly denote a fungal infection. Recognizing the unique characteristics of onychomycosis aids nail technicians in diagnosing and advising clients appropriately.