Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, a certified dermatologist practicing in Mississippi, has brought attention to a critical issue concerning nail health.
In a recent TikTok video, which has amassed over 35,300 views since its release on Tuesday, Dr. Zubritsky underscores the importance of not overlooking any dark marks or lines on one's nails, a common oversight for many.
Dr. Zubritsky emphasises the significance of closely examining nails for a dark vertical line, as it could be indicative of a rare yet severe form of skin cancer called subungual melanoma.
Subungual melanoma, although rare, needs immediate attention as it can be easily missed.
However, factors such as age (between 50 to 70), darker skin, and a family history of melanoma increase the risk.
The cancer often appears as a brown-black discoloration of the nail bed, sometimes mistaken for a fungal infection.
Meanwhile, Dr. Zubritsky advises that not all dark lines on nails are cause for concern.
Longitudinal melanonychia, a benign condition, may present as a lighter streak on multiple nails.
Additionally, she recommends distinguishing between subungual melanoma and subungual hematoma, which results from trauma and causes blood to pool under the nail. Unlike melanoma, hematomas usually go away over time.
Moreover, Dr. Zubritsky highlights the importance of seeking medical attention if Hutchinson’s sign is observed, where discoloration spreads from the nail into the skin.
