Subungual squamous cell carcinoma: Report of 2 cases
Journal
Journal of the Formosan Medical Association
Journal Volume
99
Journal Issue
8
Pages
646-649
Date Issued
2000
Author(s)
Abstract
Subungual squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare malignant tumor with an indolent course. Its etiology is unknown. It often involves the distal phalanx of the thumb or the index finger, and often presents as a chronic ulcer that is commonly misdiagnosed as chronic paronychia, pyogenic granuloma or verruca vulgaris. Approximately 150 cases of subungual SCC, including one in a Taiwanese patient, have been reported. Here, we report two cases of subungual SCC presenting as a chronic ulcer of the nail bed refractory to antibiotic treatment. One case involved the right thumb, while the other involved the right index finger. Radiographs of both cases showed an osteolytic bone lesion involving the distal phalanx. Excision biopsy revealed SCC in both cases. Both patients received amputation of the involved distal phalanx and showed no signs of reoccurrence during 5 years of follow-up. These findings suggest that all recalcitrant ulcers of the nail bed should be biopsied to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of subungual SCC.
SDGs
Other Subjects
adult; article; case report; clinical feature; female; finger amputation; human; index finger; nail bed; squamous cell carcinoma; symptom; thumb; treatment outcome; tumor biopsy; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Nail Diseases; Skin Neoplasms
Type
journal article