Dr. Vandana Andrews
General Practitioner
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
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Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 31-year-old male, a non-smoker or drinker of alcohol, and I do not currently take any medication. Today, I noticed a spot on the side of my toenail. It is small and appears purple. I do not remember causing any trauma to my toe, but I have a young son who likes to jump on me and throw toys around. I am concerned it is cancer. I have had no sickness, night sweats, or unintentional weight loss. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have read the query, and I can understand your concern.
Based on your description and the image (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity), it is unlikely that the purple spot on your toenail is a sign of cancer. Subungual melanoma (skin cancer under the nail) is rare and typically presents as a dark, irregularly shaped spot that grows and spreads beyond the nail plate. The spot you described is small and purple and appears confined to the nail bed. It may be a subungual hematoma, a collection of blood beneath the nail. It can occur due to trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on your toe or stubbing it. Blood is the reason for the purple color, and it may take several weeks to go away. In the meantime, you can try elevating your foot, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and keeping the area clean and dry to promote healing.
I hope this will help you.
Thank you.
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General Practitioner
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