Melanonychia refers to the presence of brown or black pigmentation within the nail plate, often appearing as a streak or band, and can be caused by a variety of factors ranging from benign to malignant conditions. Accurate diagnosis is crucial as it can be an early indicator of melanoma, necessitating thorough clinical evaluation and sometimes biopsy for definitive assessment.

Melanonychia

Brown pigmentation

Black pigmentation

The nail plate is the hard, keratinous structure that forms the visible part of the nail, providing protection to the fingertips and enhancing fine motor skills. It is composed of tightly packed, dead keratinocytes and grows from the nail matrix, which is located beneath the proximal nail fold.

Nail Plate

Streak or band

Benign conditions

Malignant conditions

Accurate Diagnosis

Early indicator of melanoma

Clinical evaluation is a systematic process that assesses the safety and performance of a medical device or intervention through the analysis of clinical data. It is a critical component in the regulatory approval process, ensuring that the product meets health and safety standards before reaching the market.

Clinical Evaluation

A biopsy is a medical procedure that involves the extraction of sample cells or tissues for examination to determine the presence or extent of a disease. It is a crucial diagnostic tool used to detect cancer, infections, and other medical conditions, providing critical information for treatment planning.

Concepts

Relevant Degrees

Your Lessons