Serious Symptoms Of Subungual Melanoma

Melanoma is a form of cancer that originates in the cells of an individual's skin that contain pigments called melanocytes. Subungual describes the area just underneath the fingernail. When cancer begins in the cells that form the nail matrix, it is called subungual melanoma. While most forms of melanoma are known to be the result of excessive sun exposure, subungual melanoma more often is related to trauma and or injury to the nail. A subungual melanoma diagnosis is made with a physical examination and tissue biopsy. Early detection of any melanoma is imperative, as melanoma is known to be aggressive and spread quickly to other parts of the body. The only available treatment for subungual melanoma is surgical removal of the cancerous cells and or amputation of all or part of the affected finger.