"Does Subungual Melanoma Suddenly Appear?"

Subungual Melanoma Growth and Treatment Overview

Subungual melanomas do not typically emerge suddenly. They are often caused by the invasion of melanoma into the nail bed, and their clinical manifestations vary at different stages. Due to the varying severity of the condition, treatment methods also differ. It is recommended to follow medical advice closely for treatment, and the specific analysis is as follows:

Subungual melanoma primarily occurs under the nails of the extremities, especially in middle-aged and elderly individuals. In its early stages, vertical splitting of the nail plate is common, which gradually turns black. Additionally, some patients may experience melanoma-related hyperplasia, a stage that is prone to misdiagnosis. As the melanoma gradually enlarges, it often damages the nail plate, leading to the possibility of bloody or watery secretions. Therefore, subungual melanomas do not typically grow suddenly but develop over time.

For patients diagnosed with subungual melanoma, surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and biological therapies are commonly employed. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary.