HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Is A Light Brown Mark On My Thumb’s Nail Bed For Over Six Months A Concern?

default
Posted on Tue, 29 Mar 2022
Question: I’ve had a light brown mark on my thumb for about 6 months. It’s not in the mail and hasn’t bled or change shape. It is flat to the skin and is part of the skin itself. I do bite the skin around my fingers due to anxiety so not sure if that has slightly damaged the skin.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (43 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Regarding a brown spot on nail fold

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Perhaps this brown spot is due to thickening of the skin at this site. Biting of the skin around nail could be a possible cause. I suggest you to use a salicylic acid ointment 6-12% , twice daily for a few days. It would help exfoliate the thickened skin.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if you need any more assistance.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (15 minutes later)
Did you look at the two photos ? Could this be melanoma ?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (34 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Not a melanoma

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

A melanoma of the nail unit usually involves the adjoining nail as a band or streak of pigmentation along the nail plate. Moreover, in the pictures, it is just a faintly pigmented, flat spot away from the nail plate and with intact overlying skin. Clinically it doesn't look like a melanoma.

Let me know if you need any more assistance.
Take care
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (27 minutes later)
Ok thanks, last question, should I visit my Dr or just leave it and get the cream you suggested ?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (35 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Salicylic acid ointment.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

You may try to find the ointment I suggested and use it for a few days. If it doesn't improve you may then visit a dermatologist in your region.

Let me know if you need any more assistance.
Take care
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Kakkar

Dermatologist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 9612 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Is A Light Brown Mark On My Thumb’s Nail Bed For Over Six Months A Concern?

Brief Answer: Regarding a brown spot on nail fold Detailed Answer: Hello, Perhaps this brown spot is due to thickening of the skin at this site. Biting of the skin around nail could be a possible cause. I suggest you to use a salicylic acid ointment 6-12% , twice daily for a few days. It would help exfoliate the thickened skin. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if you need any more assistance.