Subungual Melanoma: What You Need to Know
The Doctors・2 minutes read
Subungual melanoma can be deadly if not caught early, as seen with Bob Marley's death, emphasizing the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment. To protect against skin cancer related to nail treatments, applying SPF 30 sunscreen before UV exposure during manicures is recommended.
Insights
- Subungual melanoma, a dangerous form of cancer under the nail, can spread quickly and prove fatal if not detected early, even impacting people with darker skin tones, as seen in Bob Marley's case.
- To prevent skin cancer from nail treatments, applying SPF 30 zinc-based sunscreen before UV light exposure during manicures is crucial. Opting for less harmful treatments, like regular manicures, and using protective measures such as gloves can reduce the risk of developing skin cancer in this context.
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Recent questions
How can subungual melanoma be deadly?
Subungual melanoma can be deadly if not caught early, as it has the potential to spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body. This type of malignant tumor under the nail can even affect individuals with skin of color. Bob Marley's death was attributed to metastases from this type of melanoma, highlighting the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment, which may involve removing the nail bed or matrix.
What precautions can individuals take to protect against skin cancer related to nail treatments?
To protect against skin cancer related to nail treatments like gel or acrylic nails, individuals are advised to apply SPF 30 sunscreen, preferably zinc-based, before exposure to UV lights during manicures. It is recommended to opt for regular manicures over more damaging treatments. However, if necessary, wearing gloves or cutting off the tips of the gloves can help minimize exposure to harmful UV rays.
Can subungual melanoma spread to other parts of the body?
Yes, subungual melanoma, a type of malignant tumor under the nail, can spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body if not caught early. This type of melanoma can be deadly and even affect individuals with skin of color. It is crucial to seek prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent the spread of the cancer.
What was the cause of Bob Marley's death?
Bob Marley's death was attributed to metastases from subungual melanoma, a type of malignant tumor under the nail. This emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for this type of melanoma, as it can be deadly if left untreated and allowed to spread to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes.
How can individuals minimize exposure to harmful UV rays during manicures?
Individuals can minimize exposure to harmful UV rays during manicures by applying SPF 30 sunscreen, preferably zinc-based, before exposure to UV lights. It is recommended to opt for regular manicures over more damaging treatments like gel or acrylic nails. If necessary, wearing gloves or cutting off the tips of the gloves can help protect against skin cancer related to nail treatments.
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Summary
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Preventing and Treating Subungual Melanoma
- A subungual melanoma, a type of malignant tumor under the nail, can be deadly if not caught early, as it can spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body, even affecting individuals with skin of color. Bob Marley's death was attributed to metastases from this type of melanoma, emphasizing the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment, which may involve removing the nail bed or matrix.
- To protect against skin cancer related to nail treatments like gel or acrylic nails, individuals are advised to apply SPF 30 sunscreen, preferably zinc-based, before exposure to UV lights during manicures. It's recommended to opt for regular manicures over more damaging treatments, but if necessary, wearing gloves or cutting off the tips of the gloves can help minimize exposure.
