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Updated: May 10, 2026
07:41
A Robust Discovery Platform for the Identification of Novel Mediators of Melanoma Metastasis
Published on: March 8, 2022
Nail apparatus melanoma: a diagnostic opportunity
Ana Maria Carreño1, Sílvia Rocha Nakajima, Silmara N Pennini
1UFAM, Manaus, AM, Brazil.
Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia
|June 7, 2013
Summary
Malignant melanoma of the nail apparatus is rare and often diagnosed late, leading to worse prognoses. Early detection of suspicious nail lesions, like longitudinal melanonychia, is crucial for improved survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant melanoma, a high-mortality neoplasm, rarely involves the nail apparatus.
- Nail apparatus melanoma diagnosis is often delayed, as only 2 out of 3 patients present due to nail melanocytic lesions, worsening prognosis compared to cutaneous melanoma.
Observation:
- A female patient initially presented with ulcerative lesions suggestive of leishmaniasis.
- Following treatment, longitudinal melanonychia was noted on her first right finger.
Findings:
- Biopsy of the nail matrix revealed melanoma in situ.
- Longitudinal melanonychia is not a specific indicator of melanoma, necessitating careful dermatological evaluation of suspect lesions.
Implications:
- The incidental diagnosis of nail melanoma in situ significantly improved the patient's survival outcome.
- Dermatologists must be vigilant in identifying and evaluating suspicious nail matrix lesions to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of subungual melanoma.
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