Today’s Current Affairs: US Dermatologist Warns About a Nail Sign You Should Never Ignore
A US-based dermatologist is urging people to check their nails for a dark vertical line, as it could be a sign of a rare and serious skin cancer called subungual melanoma. Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky emphasized the importance of seeking medical help if this line is present, as early detection is crucial for successful treatment. It is essential to distinguish between benign streaks and potentially dangerous signs, as not all dark streaks on nails indicate melanoma. Stay informed and prioritize your health by paying attention to these subtle yet significant clues.
Which type of skin cancer can be indicated by a dark-pigmented vertical streak going down the nail?
– A. Basal cell carcinoma
– B. Subungual melanoma
– C. Squamous cell carcinoma
– D. Actinic keratosis
Answer: B. Subungual melanoma
What is the benign version of a vertical nail streak that is typically brown or black?
– A. Subungual hematoma
– B. Squamous cell carcinoma
– C. Longitudinal melanonychia
– D. Basal cell carcinoma
Answer: C. Longitudinal melanonychia
Subungual melanomas account for what percentage of all malignant melanomas worldwide?
– A. 10-15%
– B. 0.1-0.5%
– C. 3.5-7%
– D. 0.7-3.5%
Answer: D. 0.7-3.5%
Which characteristics put people at greater risk for developing subungual melanomas?
– A. Lighter skin tone
– B. Age between 20-40
– C. Family history of basal cell carcinoma
– D. Age between 50-70, darker skin, and family history of melanoma
Answer: D. Age between 50-70, darker skin, and family history of melanoma
What nail sign should you never ignore, according to the US dermatologist?
A vertical line on the nail, especially if it is dark-pigmented, should never be ignored as it could indicate a subungual melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
How does Dr. Zubritsky differentiate between a subungual melanoma and a benign nail streak?
Dr. Zubritsky explained that a dark vertical line on the nail could be a subungual melanoma, while a lighter streak that is not changing and found on multiple nails is more likely a benign streak.
When should you seek medical help regarding a dark vertical line on the nail?
You should seek medical help if you have a dark vertical line on your nail as it could be evidence of a subungual melanoma, according to Dr. Zubritsky.
Today's current affairs highlight the importance of checking your nails for a dark vertical line, as it could indicate a rare and serious type of skin cancer. US dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky is urging people to pay attention to any dark-pigmented streaks on their nails, as it could be a sign of subungual melanoma. While not all dark streaks are dangerous, it's essential to get any concerning lines checked out by a medical professional. Subungual melanomas are rare, accounting for only a small percentage of all malignant melanomas, but early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Remember to take care of your health and pay attention to any changes in your nails to catch potential issues early on.
