fingernail cancer signs

Cancer treatments that can cause nail changes

Type of nail change	Some cancer treatments that can cause It
Dark areas in cuticle	Targeted therapy antiangiogenic multikin ...
Over-pigmented (hyperpigmented) nails	Chemotherapy such as Bleomycin, capecita ...
Fissures (deep grooves)	Targeted therapy or immunotherapy monocl ...
Hemorrhages (splinter hemorrhage)	Chemotherapy taxanes (doxorubicin, docet ...

May 13 2022

Full Answer

Can your nails tell you if you have cancer?

Nails can be indicators of both medical conditions and skin disorders. “Nails can be the first sign of an underlying medical condition, like thyroid disease, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disorders, certain cancers, and malnutrition,” she explains.

How can fingernails show cancer?

Quick facts about nail melanoma

• Over 60% occur in the fingernails, and about 40% occur in the toenails. 1
• Subungual melanoma begins in the nail matrix (the part of the nail bed that protects the underlying skin). 3
• It is most commonly diagnosed in the thumbs and big toes. 3
• Unlike many melanomas, subungual melanoma is not caused by sun exposure. 3

Can your fingernails predict cancer?

The diagnosis: cancer. Changes in fingernails can alert you to all sorts of health issues, including lung cancer, as a British woman recently found out when she became alarmed by her symptoms.

What are signs of unhealthy nails?

What’s causing your nails to change texture?

• Brittle. Rough, splitting nails that may also crack easily are one of the most commonly reported nail problems.
• Soft or weak. These nails break easily or bend before snapping. ...
• Peeling. This is likely caused by external trauma to the nail itself — by using your nail as a tool, pressing into the nail too firmly or removing acrylic nail ...
• Ridges. ...

What does cancer look like on fingernails?

Dark areas near the cuticle of the nail (subungual lesions): These look like bruises under the nails, and are usually along the bottom edge of the nail, near the cuticle. These kinds of color changes can be seen in nail cancer (called melanoma) and can also be a side effect of some types of drugs used to treat cancer.

What does the start of nail cancer look like?

a light- to dark-brown colored band on the nail that's usually vertical. a dark band on the nail that slowly expands and covers more of the nail. dark nail pigmentation that expands to the surrounding skin. a nodule underneath the nail with or without a pigmentation band.

What does cancer look like under a fingernail?

‌ ‌You have a brown-black colored band on your nail that is larger than three millimeters in size with irregularly shaped edges. The discoloration grows, and at what rate it does so. It's in the nail bed of your thumb, big toe, or index finger, although it can be seen in other fingers and toes.

What happens to your fingernails when you have cancer?

During treatment for breast cancer you may notice some changes in the color or thickness of your fingernails or toenails or changes around the nail bed. Your nails may look bruised — turning black, brown, blue, or green. People with darker complexions notice the color change more.

What does Stage 1 melanoma look like?

Stage IA Melanoma: The melanoma tumor is less than 1.0 millimeter thick (less than the size of a sharpened pencil point) with or without ulceration (broken skin) when viewed under the microscope. Stage IB Melanoma: The melanoma tumor is more than 1.0 millimeter and less than 2.0 millimeters thick without ulceration.

What does melanoma look like under your fingernail?

Subungual melanoma often starts as a brown or black streak under a toenail or fingernail. A person may mistake it for a bruise. The main symptoms of subungual melanoma include: brown or black streaks in the nail without any known injury.

How do you treat nail cancer?

What is the treatment for nail tumors? "The recommended treatment for malignant nail tumors is surgical excision of the lesion," Dr. Morrison says. "Non-malignant tumors do not always require surgical removal unless they are painful or otherwise symptomatic."

Can tumors grow in fingernails?

Onychomatricoma is a tumor of the nail matrix which often presents with alterations in the nail plate while the tumor itself is concealed beneath the nail plate. It is a benign, biphasic fibroepithelial tumor which has to be differentiated from other subungual and periungual tumors.

Can fingernails show signs of illness?

Did you know your nails can reveal clues to your overall health? A touch of white here, a rosy tinge there, or some rippling or bumps may be a sign of disease in the body. Problems in the liver, lungs, and heart can show up in your nails.

What are signs you may have cancer?

What are some general signs and symptoms of cancer?Fatigue or extreme tiredness that doesn't get better with rest.Weight loss or gain of 10 pounds or more for no known reason.Eating problems such as not feeling hungry, trouble swallowing, belly pain, or nausea and vomiting.Swelling or lumps anywhere in the body.More items...•

Can cancer cause ridges in fingernails?

Chemotherapy can affect the strength and shape of your nails. They can become weak and brittle, develop ridges (Beau's lines), or become spoon-like in shape (koilonychia). Chemo also lowers your white blood cell count, putting you at risk for infection around your nails.

7 nail symptoms and conditions you shouldn't ignore - TODAY

Only about 1 percent of all melanomas in Caucasians occur in the nail, but if you’re African-American, 20 percent of melanomas start there, Rich said.

12 nail changes a dermatologist should examine

Deep groove in nail Medical name: Beau lines Deep grooves (or gaps) Lines that run the length of a nail are common and usually nothing to worry about. If you see deep grooves that run the width of your nail like the ones shown in this picture, it means that something slowed (or stopped) your nails from growing for a while.

DARK LINES

Megan said that thin, dark lines coming from the root of the nail to the tip could indicate broken blood vessels, psoriasis, or even melanoma.

CLUBBED NAILS

Clubbed nails occur when the tips of the fingers enlarge and the nails curve around the fingertips.

HORIZONTAL RIDGES

Horizontal ridges across the nails, known as Beau’s lines, are horizontal indentations, or ridges, that run straight across the nail.

What are the changes in the nail?

Some common nail changes include: Changes in the color of the nails or nailbeds (either discolored areas or over-pigmented, darker than usual areas) Ridges, markings, pits, spots, splitting and other unusual or irregular marks in the nails. Slower nail growth than usual , or temporary lack of growth .

What are the changes in the tissue around your nails?

You might also notice changes in the tissue around or under your nails. Some common nail changes include: Changes in thickness and strength of nails causing nails to become weaker.

How to prevent nail lifting from taxane?

Avoid pressure to your nail beds (both fingers and toes) If you are taking a taxane drug (especially docetaxel), consider applying cold packs to nails for 15 minutes before the infusion of the drug, during the infusion, and for 15 minutes after the infusion. This may prevent nail lifting.

How to protect ridges on nails?

Use a water-soluble nail lacquer on nails that have ridges, are delicate, or are splitting, to strengthen and protect them. Let your health care team know as soon as you see nail changes. Keep your nails trimmed short. Short nails are less likely to break or get caught. Keep your nails clean to avoid infections.

What is the red line under the nail plate?

Hemorrhages (splinter hemorrhage): Tiny red lines in the nails that are tiny areas of bleeding under the nail plate. Hyperpigmentation: Nail plates are usually translucent (clear). Some medications or radiation can cause a darkening of the skin, or nail itself.

How to protect your nails from splitting?

Protect splitting, ridges, and delicate nails by using a water-soluble nail lacquer, or a prescription nail polish (that your doctor can provide) to protect your nails. Biotin (a dietary supplement) may be prescribed to strengthen your nails. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you to take biotin.

How to treat paronychia?

Nail inflammation (paronychia): Treatment recommended by your doctor might include using a steroid ointment, and white vinegar and water soaks (1 part vinegar to 1 part water), disinfecting soaks, or oral anti-inflammatory medications, or antibiotics.

How to detect cancer before symptoms?

Many adults are aware of regular self-screenings recommended to detect cancer, before the onset of symptoms. For example, women should examine their breasts regularly for lumps or other changes. Men should examine their testicles. And everyone should look over their skin for changes in moles or other irregularities.

Why do my nails change color?

Cancer treatments and nail health. Certain cancer drugs may also cause nails to change color or texture. The American Cancer Society lists the following nail changes that may result from certain chemotherapy or targeted therapy drugs: Dark areas in the cuticle.

What is the condition called when your toenail is swollen?

Some fingernail or toenail changes may be a harbinger of a condition called subungual melanoma, commonly known as nail bed cancer, a rare occurrence that accounts for less than 4 percent of all malignant melanomas. Subungual means “beneath the nail.”.

What does it mean when you have dark spots on your feet?

Dark, vertical streaks may also point to subungual melanoma. “Less than 10 percent of melanomas occur on hands and feet, including the fingers,” Dr. Ejadi says. “Sometimes people see a dark color under the nail, and it may be misdiagnosed as a fungus, bleeding or some other benign issue.

Why do my nails get discolored?

Nail fungi, which typically appears as discolored spots—more often on toenails than fingernails—occurs when tiny cracks in the nail or cuticle allow fungi to get in. The fungi will likely cause the nail to thicken, making it more prone to cracking or breaking.

Why do my nails break easily?

Soft nails that break easily may be the result of deficiencies in calcium, iron or vitamin B— concerns that may be addressed by eating more calcium-rich foods, such as milk or cheese, or by taking supplements. Nail color may reveal some health issues as well.

Can cancer patients get nails trimmed?

Ridges, lines or creasing. Cancer patients with nail issues caused by treatments are advised to keep their nails trimmed and clean and to avoid professional manicures during treatment. Patients should also protect their hands with gloves while working in the yard or using cleaning products.

What does a melanoma look like?

What does melanoma on the nail look like? Subungual melanomas usually appear as a brown or black streak under the nail. 3,4 Typically, these streaks gradually increase in size and are usually larger than 3mm. 1 Unlike nail infection or trauma to the nails, subungual melanoma typically affects one nail at a time. 3,4.

How to diagnose subungual melanoma?

To diagnose subungual melanoma, your healthcare provider will likely perform a biopsy. Most often, your provider will numb the affected toe or finger and then use a punch biopsy (a biopsy tool with a tube-shape and sharp end) to remove a piece of the nail for testing. 3

What are some interesting facts about melanoma?

Quick facts about nail melanoma 1 Over 60% occur in the fingernails, and about 40% occur in the toenails. 1 2 Subungual melanoma begins in the nail matrix (the part of the nail bed that protects the underlying skin). 3 3 It is most commonly diagnosed in the thumbs and big toes. 3 4 Unlike many melanomas, subungual melanoma is not caused by sun exposure. 3

What does it mean when your nails are separating?

Nail separating (‘lifting’) from the nail bed 4. Nail brittleness and cracking 3. A nodule underneath the nail 3. Darkening of the skin next to the nail (known as Hutchinson’s Sign) 2.

Is subungual melanoma more common in Caucasians?

Have a personal or family history of atypical moles 2. Are over 50 years of age 3. Are non-Caucasians (approximately 35% of cases), versus Caucasians (2% of cases) 3,4.

Can you protect your hands from subungual melanoma?

The exact cause of subungual melanoma is unknown, meaning that patients cannot take specific steps to prevent this condition. However, because it may be associated with trauma to the hands and feet, you may want to keep yours hands and feet protected. 2 For example, you can protect your hands and feet by wearing gloves during heavy labor, or wearing protective gear and sturdy shoes during sports.

What are the symptoms of nail ridges?

Common nail conditions and symptoms. Brown vertical stripes on nails. Breaking and brittle nails. Nails with ridges. White spots on nails. Yellow nails or cuticles. Horizontal ridges in nails. Splitting, bleeding or inflamed skin around nails.

What do ridges on nails and white spots say about your overall health?

What do brittle nails, ridges on nails and white spots say about your overall health? "A lot of times we'll learn in training that the nails can be a window into your health because they can sometimes be an indicator of some underlying medical problems," said Dr. Natalie Azar. eyepark / Getty Images stock.

Why are my nails yellow?

Very yellow nails that are thick and slow growing may be associated with lung problems, Rich noted. If you have yellow nail syndrome, you may also experience excessively curved nails and see them separate from the nail bed.

How to stop a nail from swelling?

Course of action: Soak your nail in hot water two or three times a day to help reduce the swelling and pain, experts note. Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics or other medicine.

Why do my nails get brittle?

Symptom: Brittle nails. This common problem can happen because of an issue with your diet or the chemicals your hands are exposed to. Nails are formed in the nail matrix, the root of the nail. If you are malnourished or lack certain nutrients, your body doesn’t have the material to make good nails, Rich said.

Why do I have vertical lines on my nails?

“They’re kind of like wrinkles in the nail,” Rich said. She discourages patients from buffing or filing the ridges smooth because that thins the nail.

Why do my nails have brown spots?

Hormones and certain medications can also make pigmented bands in the nails, but be especially watchful for nail cancer symptoms, such as a brown or dark stripe that goes from the cuticle out to the free edge of the nail, especially one that’s getting wider.

What is the Hutchinson sign?

Hutchinson’s sign. “The Hutchinson’s sign is when the pigment in the nail extends to the nail fold (the skin next to the nail), ” says Dr. Ilyas. “This sign is considered ominous for a melanoma of the nail.”

Is subungual melanoma serious?

There are cases of pediatric subungual melanoma. • Since it affects only the nail, it’s not that serious. Wrong. Like any other kind of melanoma, a tumor that affects the nail can penetrate and spread to other parts of the body via the lymphatic system.

Can a mole in the nail bed be a Hutchinson's sign?

The pigment is “leaking” into the skin near the cuticle. What’s even scarier is that a benign pigment in the nail bed ( yes, harmless moles can appear there and take on the shape of a streak, band or line) can create a “pseudo-Hutchinson’s sign.”. To a layperson, this appears to be a true Hutchinson’s sign.

Can melanoma be on your toenail?

Medically reviewed by Erum Ilyas, MD. Yes, melanoma can affect a fingernail or toenail, and there are two major warning signs that what you see is a potentially deadly tumor — also known as subungual melanoma. Myths About Nail Melanoma.

What causes a lump on the end of your fingernails?

Lung cancer: Signs and symptoms to look out for. It’s caused by a build-up of fluid in soft tissues at the end of the fingernails, added Cancer Research UK. The NHS said: “Clubbing of the fingertips can run in families and be entirely harmless.

What is cancer in the NHS?

NHS urge people to be clear on cancer symptoms. Cancer is a serious disease where cells in the body grow and reproduce uncontrollably. The new, cancerous cells can destroy surrounding tissue, and can spread to attack health organs. Cancer symptoms usually include any unexplained changes to the body. That may involve finding blood in your urine ...

What does it mean when your fingernails are clubbed?

‘Finger clubbing’ means specific changes in the shape of your fingers and fingernails, according to Cancer Research UK. The condition causes the base of the nail to become softer, and the skin next to the nail to become shinier.

Can cancer cause lumps in your urine?

Cancer symptoms usually include any unexplained changes to the body. That may involve finding blood in your urine or stools, or the sudden appearance of a lump. But, you could also be at risk of cancer if you find your fingernails have become elongated.

What does it mean when your fingernails are clubbed?

Clubbed nails are nails that curve downward and are generally softer while the tips of your fingers widen or appear larger. This is a sign of a serious problem. It can indicate low oxygen in your blood, lung disease, liver disease, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease or even AIDS.

Why do my nails get brittle?

But, they can also be a sign of hypothyroidism. If you have brittle nails and are suffering from any of the symptoms of low thyroid, like fatigue, weight gain, memory loss, cold hands and feet or trouble sleeping ask your doctor to check your thyroid.

Do fingernails make you look good?

But your fingernails do more than just make you look good, they also provide a window to your health. In fact, small signs on your nails could be warning you of big health problems down the road. Let’s take a look at the 10 things your fingernails could be trying to tell you about your health.