Spotting silent signs: When nail changes hint at melanoma
Cancer cells can be very deceptive as they develop in our bodies, often not revealing their presence right away. Sometimes, they also send unclear signals. One possible symptom of cancer is changes visible in the nails. What should concern us?
20 November 2024 18:21
Changes in the nails can result from natural aging, fungal infections, or minor injuries. Such situations should generally not cause concern. However, in some cases, a change in the appearance of nails may indicate serious health problems.
Brown or black spots under the nail usually result from a hematoma but can also suggest the presence of a tumour. Specific symptoms are involved here.
What changes may signal nail melanoma?
Attention should be paid to dark streaks or bands under the nails, which may be a symptom of subungual melanoma. Thickening of the nail plate can also often be observed. This dangerous condition sometimes also appears as a dark mole.
It's worth knowing that this type of cancer often does not show any warning signs. It starts developing covertly and is usually detected when it has already spread to other organs, reducing the patient's chances of recovery.
However, it's important to note that nail melanoma is relatively rare—it accounts for about 2% of all melanoma cases. At the same time, it is very aggressive and quickly becomes malignant.
These are also symptoms of other skin cancers
Other skin cancers that may develop under the nail include squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Diagnosing subungual melanoma is not easy for both patients and doctors. It requires appropriate tests and careful observation of skin changes.
During this disease, one can first notice a dark streak running perpendicular to the skin from under the nail. This is characteristic of this type of cancer.
Statistical studies show that in 50% of patients, this change is dark blue or brown. In other cases, the streak remains unpigmented, and the colour appears only in the advanced stages of the disease. It's also worth noting black dots under the nail's surface, which may indicate cancer.
Over time, symptoms may include brown spots under the nail, changes in its shape, deformities, and cracking, as well as dark nodules, bleeding, red or yellowish spots, ulcers, and poorly healing wounds in these areas. Unfortunately, these symptoms may indicate a more advanced stage of cancer.
Symptoms accompanying skin cancer also include chronic fatigue and rapid weight loss that is not related to diet changes, medication, or intense physical activity. A significant deterioration in well-being is often observed, even after a good night's rest.
