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Subungual malignant melanoma
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|July 28, 2007
Summary
A rare case of subungual malignant melanoma, a cancer under the fingernail, was diagnosed in a 43-year-old male. Surgical removal was successful, with no remaining cancer cells found.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Subungual malignant melanoma is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.
- The Hutchison sign is a key clinical indicator of subungual melanoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a rare case of subungual malignant melanoma.
- To highlight the clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges.
- To emphasize the importance of prompt surgical intervention.
Main Methods:
- Clinical presentation of a 43-year-old male with a black, dystrophic left middle finger nail plate.
- Physical examination revealing a positive Hutchison sign.
- Surgical management involving disarticulation at the proximal interphalangeal joint.
- Histopathological confirmation of malignant melanoma.
Main Results:
- Histopathology confirmed malignant melanoma of the subungual region.
- Surgical resection achieved tumor-free margins.
- The patient's condition was successfully managed with limb-sparing surgery.
Conclusions:
- Subungual malignant melanoma requires high clinical suspicion, especially with characteristic signs like the Hutchison sign.
- Prompt and adequate surgical resection is essential for effective treatment.
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare presentations of melanoma.
