GPs and specialists are encouraged to also check the nails of patients for signs of melanoma.
When checking for signs of melanoma, check your nails. This is the key message of a recent release from the American Academy of Dermatology.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in Australia, with more than 13,000 cases were diagnosed in 2016 and 1,770 patients died from this condition, according to official figures.
A common approach for the diagnosis of skin cancer involves the examination of any suspicious spots on the skin, usually by a GP or specialist. However, the nails can also provide important information about potential cases of melanoma.
While rare, skin cancer can develop under and around the fingernails and toenails, and the condition may be more common in older individuals, people with dark skin, a family history of melanoma or a previous nail trauma.
Like with other cancers, early detection greatly increases the chances of an effective treatment. “The good news is that when found early, melanoma — even on the nails — is highly treatable,” said board-certified dermatologist Dr Skylar Souyoul, in the press release. “The best way to find skin cancer on your nails early, when it’s most treatable, is to know what to look for and regularly check your nails,” he added.
What to look for
A health care provider checking for signs of melanoma should pay attention to their patient’s nails. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, here are some ways to assess the health of nails and determine if there is evidence of cancer:
- A dark streak – This may look like a brown or black band in the nail;
- Dark skin next to the nail – dark skin around the nail could be a sign of advanced melanoma;
- Nail lifting from fingers or toes – the nail starts to separate from the nail bed;
- Nail splitting – this occurs when a nail splits down the middle;
- A bump or nodule under the nails – there could also be a band of color on the nail. It could be wide and irregular or dark and narrow.
“Nail melanoma is often diagnosed at a more advanced stage than melanoma on the skin, making it more dangerous for your health,” says Dr. Souyoul. “If you notice any changes to your nails, including a new dark band on your nail, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist,” he added.
For more information see this video : How to check your nails for melanoma – YouTube