Can changes in the nail indicate cancer? What to watch out for?

Doctors are urging people to pay attention to subtle changes in their toenails and fingernails, as these could sometimes signal an underlying health issue, including a rare type of skin cancer. While many associate skin cancer with irregular moles or changes on exposed skin, nails are often overlooked as potential indicators of serious health problems.

Understanding nail melanoma

Melanoma, a form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body, typically develops in areas exposed to the sun. However, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), it can also form under and around the nails, a condition known as subungual melanoma. This rare type of melanoma is not related to sun exposure and is considered serious by medical experts.

Subungual melanoma most often affects the big toe, thumb, or index finger. Although anyone can develop this condition, it is more common in individuals aged 50 to 70 and those of African-American, Asian, or Hispanic descent.

Recognizing the symptoms

Subungual melanoma can manifest in various ways. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) identifies key signs, including:

• A dark vertical line beneath the nail, which may be black or dark brown.
  
• A band of darker skin around the nail bed.
  
• A dome-shaped growth that feels firm and may bleed.
  
• A spot resembling a mole or freckle that appears distinct from other marks on the body.
  
• A changing mole with jagged edges, multiple colors, and noticeable growth.
  
• A slowly enlarging patch of thickened skin that resembles a scar.
  

These changes are subtle, making it crucial to monitor any unusual developments in nail appearance.

When to seek help?

While many nail changes are harmless, it’s essential not to ignore persistent or unusual symptoms. If a dark line or patch appears under your nail and continues to grow, or if a sore doesn’t heal, it’s worth consulting a healthcare professional. According to AADA, if you find a spot or growth on your skin that you think could be a melanoma, quickly making an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist. When melanoma is caught early on, it is highly treatable.