Why do I have a mole under my toenail?
A black spot under the nail can indicate a type of melanoma called acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM). These melanomas can appear anywhere on the body, including underneath fingernails and toenails. The sub-type of ALM that affects the nail is called subungual melanoma.
Can you have a mole under your nail?
Moles can develop anywhere on your body, including your scalp, armpits, under your nails, and between your fingers and toes.
What does melanoma look like in toenails?
When checking your nails for melanoma, dermatologists recommend looking for the following changes: A dark streak. This may look like a brown or black band in the nail — often on the thumb or big toe of your dominant hand or foot. However, this dark streak can show up on any nail.
Does melanoma under toenail hurt?
In 75\% to 90\% of reported cases, subungual melanomas have been found in the thumb and the big toe. But they can be seen in other toes and fingers. And they can be quite painful.
Does melanoma in toenail hurt?
In 75\% to 90\% of reported cases, subungual melanomas have been found in the thumb and the big toe. But they can be seen in other toes and fingers. And they can be quite painful. Inflammation, a normal bodily process that fights infection or injury, can also be present.
Why did a mole suddenly appear on my foot?
Moles, or nevi, typically form during childhood and adolescence, but new moles can appear in adulthood. Although most moles are noncancerous, or benign, the development of a new mole or sudden changes to existing moles in an adult can be a sign of melanoma. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer.
How is subungual melanoma diagnosed?
A diagnosis of subungual melanoma will usually made with careful inspection of the nail and lesion. Dermatologists will use a tool called a dermascope, which provides a magnified view of the nail and surrounding tissue. A definitive diagnosis can only be made with a biopsy.