Subungual Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Twelve patients with subungual squamous cell carcinoma were treated at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center during a 27-year period. To our knowledge, only 58 cases are reported in the literature. Trauma and chronic infection were predisposing factors in some of the cases, and radiation therapy was a substantive predisposing factor in our series. Disarticulation of the distal phalanx proved effective in most patients.

Subungual Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The Diagnostic Challenge and Clinical Pearls

“…However, complete wide local excision of the tumour may be required to prevent recurrence, especially if there is evidence of local invasion [4], as bony involvement can be found in up to 20% of patients [12]. Our patient was referred promptly and underwent surgical excision due to the locally invasive disease.…”

Polydactylous Subungual Squamous Cell Carcinoma Caused by Chemical Contact

“…3,12–14 Previously little was known about its etiology, and only arsenic exposure and radiation exposure were reported. 15,16 …”

Perils of Diagnosis and Detection of Subungual Squamous Cell Carcinoma

“…Digits of the hand are involved more often than those of the feet. Typically, one digit is involved; however, some studies have reported on simultaneous involvement of multiple digits3. The thumb, particularly the distal phalanx, tends to be the most commonly affected digit3,4.…”

“…According to reports in the literature, the duration of time from onset of a nail condition to diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma varies greatly, from a few months to close to 35 years. Invasion of bone is found in approximately 20% of patients with subungual squamous cell carcinoma3. Metastasis and lymph node involvement is an atypical finding; however, it has been reported in a few cases.…”