Nail Melanoma

Melanoma of the nail affects either a thumb nail or great toenail, but may involve any finger or toenail. Trauma may be a factor, accounting for the greater incidence in trauma-prone areas. Early detection and treatment is important.

When should you be worried?

• All non-pigmented lumps under the nailplate
• A wide (> 3 mm) new or changing pigment band in a single nail [ABCDEF]

• A – Age: Older than 50
• B – Border: Blurred
• C – Colour: different colours darker and lighter bands, varied width
• D – Diameter wide >3mm; Digit - thumb or big toe
• E – Extend onto proximal nail fold
• F – Family history of melanoma