Can toenail fungus spread internally?

While a skin or nail fungus can easily spread from one body part to another or from one person to another via contact, it’s extremely rare for a toenail fungus itself to spread internally.

Yes, it’s possible for toenail fungus to spread to other toenails and to other parts of the body, such as the groin area—a condition known as jock itch. If a toenail fungus spreads to the skin between your toes, it’s known as tinea pedis, more commonly called athlete’s foot.

There are a few rare reports of toenail fungus spreading through the bloodstream to other parts of your body. Nail fungus can increase the risk of a bacterial infection of the surrounding skin, and in rare cases, a toenail fungal infection can lead to bacterial skin infections that develop when certain bacteria enter the skin through a cut or sore. 

While the risk of contracting these bacterial infections from a toenail fungus is very low, it’s higher in people who have diabetes, circulatory problems or a weakened immune system. 

If you have a toenail fungus but are otherwise healthy, you can treat a toenail fungus on your own with a topical antifungal product or visit your healthcare provider for a prescription oral antifungal medication, which is generally more effective than topicals. If you have a toenail fungus and you also have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, see your healthcare provider for treatment to help prevent secondary infections that can put your health at risk.

Published August 2022.