Seen the dermatologist argh! - Nail Problems Message Board

cutiecat · 10-03-2006, 12:03 AM

Well I posted below about having a brown line on my pinky toenail that seems to be getting darker, growing from under the cuticle and I have had this for about a year now after I split my toenail.

I went to see the dermatologist and he looked at it and said it is nothing. So I asked what does he think it is he said probably nothing just leave it alone. So now I ask is it fungus, a nail mole? And basically he said not to worry about it. So now I am here with no clue as to what is wrong with my toenail. I feel unhappy with his answer I really want to know why my toenail has this dark line on it for peace of mind so I am thinking of requesting a biopsy do you think I am overeacting?

Marti · 10-03-2006, 02:19 PM

I would be VERY unhappy wit his answer because ANY change in the nail plate is cause for concern! A brown line from the cuticle to the free edge can signify a malignant melanoma in the nail matrix. This is sometimes referred to as a 'nail mole'. Try to look it up online and see what you find. If you find a picture that looks like what you have, print it out and take it to that doctor and see what he says then!

cutiecat · 10-04-2006, 10:35 PM

My dermatologist seems to have a nonchalant attitude about the whole situtation which is surprising. From what I've read, if there is a change in the nail bed with no recent trauma and it has not improved in 6 mos. testing should be done.

I am making an appt. with a different dermatologist and not asking his opinion I am demanding a biopsy be done. This is my health and I have to be my own advocate. Most doctors I have dealt with in the past have been wonderful, I am learning some doctors just are not that good. Watch out for the ones that don't seem to be interested in your problem.