A nail tumor refers to benign or malignant cell growths that can occur on the nail plate, nail bed, and surrounding areas. These types of tumors usually develop slowly and may not show symptoms for a long time. In some cases, slowly progressing, benign masses are observed; while in other cases, rapidly growing malignant tumors that can spread to surrounding tissues may emerge. These lesions, which can be seen in both fingernails and toenails, can also lead to discomfort that may affect the quality of daily life.
What Causes Nail Tumors?
Nail tumors occur as a result of uncontrolled growth of skin cells. The causes of this condition include genetic predisposition, exposure to UV rays, smoking habits, and immune system issues.
Multiple factors may play a role in the formation of nail tumors.
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Trauma: Blows to the nail area, prolonged pressure, or repetitive microtraumas can lead to abnormal cell growth in the nail tissue.
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Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may have a higher risk of tumor development due to genetic factors.
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Chronic Infections: Prolonged fungal or bacterial infections can cause deterioration in nail structure and tumor development.
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Skin Diseases: Chronic skin diseases like psoriasis and lichen planus can affect nail tissue and lead to tumor formation.
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UV Light and Chemical Exposure: Exposure to intense sunlight or contact with chemicals can disrupt the structure of cells in the nail bed.
What are the Types of Nail Tumors?
Nail tumors can have different varieties. Common types include melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and fibrokeratoma. These types are generally observed in or around the nail bed, and early diagnosis is important.
Benign Nail Tumors
Benign tumors typically appear as localized, slow-growing lesions. Fibromas are soft tissue masses, while glomus tumors are painful masses. Pyogenic granuloma is characterized by rapidly growing vascular tissue.
These lesions, usually treated with surgical intervention, can cause aesthetic and functional issues but do not pose a cancer risk. Such conditions can be successfully controlled with regular monitoring and appropriate treatment.
- Fibroma
Fibroma, which is a painless type, is hard and benign. It typically appears as a small nodule on the skin or mucosa.
- Pyogenic Granuloma
This is a rapidly growing vascular lesion with a tendency to bleed and typically appears following trauma or hormonal changes.
- Glomus Tumor
A rare and benign glomus tumor, causing pain in the fingertips, originates from vascular and nerve cells.
Malignant Nail Tumors
Malignant tumors are formations that can rapidly grow under the fingernail. If not diagnosed at an early stage, these tumors can spread to surrounding tissues. Surgery is usually performed in treatment, and sometimes chemotherapy may be required.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This type of skin cancer, developed due to sun damage, appears in the middle layer of the skin. This cancer type can quickly grow and spread to other parts of the body but can be treated with surgery.
- Subungual Melanoma
A rare but aggressive type of melanoma, subungual melanoma typically appears as a dark line or spot and tends to spread.
What Are the Symptoms of a Subungual Tumor?
A subungual tumor can manifest through physical symptoms. Common symptoms include nail deformity, pain, and color change. Dark streaks may also indicate tumor presence.
As the tumor grows, the natural appearance of the nail may be disrupted, and a sense of mass and sensitivity under the nail may develop. Any observed change should be examined by a doctor.
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Subungual Color Change (Melanonychia)
Melanonychia appears as black or dark brown lines on the nail plate. While this symptom may appear harmless, there is a risk of melanoma, which is known to be aggressive and deadly among skin cancers. Dermatologists evaluate these symptoms through dermatoscopic examination and perform a biopsy if necessary.
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Pain and Sensitivity
Color changes like darkening in stripes on the nail may be seen, and if accompanied by pain, it could be a tumor symptom. Lesions near nerve endings can cause intense sensitivity, and glomus tumors, in particular, are known for causing finger pain and significantly affecting daily life quality.
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Nail Deformities
Glomus tumors are benign tumors found on fingertips and toes. These tumors can cause nail deformation and may become noticeable due to sensitivity to cold and pain. Generally removed by surgical intervention, nail appearance may improve after the operation.
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Swelling in the Nail
Nail deformation can occur due to underlying masses pushing the nail upwards, leading to a noticeable bulge or deformation. Over time, the nail may thin or crack. These physical changes should be monitored, and surgical treatment may be required for serious conditions like malignant tumors.
What Are the Treatment Methods for Nail Tumors?
Treatment methods for nail tumors include options such as radiotherapy, surgical intervention, and chemotherapy. While surgical intervention is generally preferred to completely remove the tumor, radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be applied to shrink or eliminate the tumor.
The treatment option is determined based on the size and spread of the tumor. During the treatment process for nail tumors, different approaches may be followed according to patients' conditions, and they must be monitored by a multidisciplinary team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are nail tumors always malignant?
No, the majority of nail tumors are benign. However, malignant tumors can also occur, and these types may progress rapidly if not detected early. Therefore, if any nail deformity, color change, or persistent swelling is noticed, it should be evaluated by a specialist.
Do subungual tumors heal on their own?
They do not go away on their own and, over time, may grow and cause more damage to the nail structure. Some tumors may initially be small and asymptomatic but can lead to problems such as pain, nail loss, or spread to surrounding tissues in later stages.
Is bruising under the nail a sign of a tumor?
No, bruising under the nail is often caused by trauma or blood accumulation. However, persistent, enlarging bruises or those causing nail structure changes may signal subungual tumors.
Is nail tumor surgery difficult?
The difficulty of the surgery can vary according to the tumor type, size, and location. Small and superficial tumors can usually be easily removed under local anesthesia, while deeper or malignant tumors may require advanced surgical techniques and reconstructive procedures.