03/03/2026
Topic: Melanonychia vs. Toenail Skin Cancer (Subungual Melanoma)
Have you ever noticed a dark brown or black line going down your toenail?
That’s called melanonychia.
Sometimes it’s harmless. It can come from:
✔️ Trauma (stubbing your toe)
✔️ Friction from shoes
✔️ Certain medications
✔️ Increased natural pigment
But here’s the important part…
In rare cases, a dark streak in the nail can be a type of skin cancer called Subungual melanoma — melanoma that forms under the nail.
🚩 Warning signs to watch for:
• A dark stripe that is getting wider
• Color that looks uneven (brown, black, gray mixed)
• Pigment spreading onto the surrounding skin
• Nail splitting where the streak is
• No history of trauma
Melanoma under the nail is uncommon — but it is serious. Early detection saves lives.
If you notice a new dark streak that wasn’t there before, don’t ignore it. Especially if you have no injury to explain it.
📍 Richmond Foot & Ankle Clinic
🌐 www.richfeet.org
📞 937-228-3668
🎙 Podcast: Footsteps to Life
🛍 Shop foot care products: https://www.amazon.com/shop/richfeet08
Healthy feet. Early detection. Peace of mind. 👣