Experts are sounding the alarm over a subtle nail abnormality that could be an indicator of cancer, as cancer rates continue to climb. A small thickened patch beneath the nail, accompanied by a red or white streak, might signal a rare genetic condition associated with an increased risk of cancer.
A recent study has linked a minor thickening under the nail to BAP1 tumour predisposition syndrome, a condition that makes individuals more susceptible to various cancers. The research revealed that these particular nail changes could be indicative of the syndrome.
Carrying this genetic mutation heightens the likelihood of developing certain cancerous growths in the skin, eyes, kidneys, and mesothelium (the lining of the chest and abdomen). According to the study published in JAMA Dermatology, 88% of subjects aged 30 or above exhibited the syndrome across several nails.
National Cancer Institute researcher Alexandra Lebensohn, who was involved in the study, remarked, "When asked about nail health during a baseline genetic assessment, a very astute patient reported that he had noticed subtle changes in his nail."
The study identified 47 individuals with onychopapilloma, predominantly males and mostly affecting the thumbnail. Lebensohn added, "His comment prompted us to systematically evaluate other participants for nail changes and uncover this new finding.", reports Birmingham Live.
Dr Edward Cowen, a dermatologist at NIH's National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, remarked: "We believe the presence of nail changes that suggest onychopapillomas on multiple nails should prompt consideration of a diagnosis of BAP1 tumour predisposition syndrome."
The cancers associated with this condition typically manifest at an early age, tend to be aggressive, and have a higher propensity to metastasise. Additionally, individuals with the BAP1 gene mutation may also experience benign skin tumors, although not everyone with the mutation will develop tumors.
