What is the term for fungus on a client's nails?

The term for fungus on a client's nails is onychomycosis. This condition specifically refers to a fungal infection that affects the nail bed and the nail itself. Common characteristics of onychomycosis include thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. This condition can be caused by a variety of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds.

The other terms listed refer to different conditions. Tinea pedis, also known as athlete's foot, is a fungal infection that specifically affects the skin of the feet, not the nails. Athlete's foot often presents with symptoms like itching and peeling skin between the toes. Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nails, which can be caused by bacteria or fungi, but it does not refer specifically to the fungal infection of the nails themselves. Understanding these distinctions helps in diagnosing and effectively treating nail conditions in clients.