Recent Blog Articles

Have lupus? What to know about birth control

Screening at home for memory loss: Should you try it?

Travel tummy troubles: Here’s how to prevent or soothe them

Easy, delicious summer veggie meals will help stretch your food budget

Tracking viruses: The best clues may be in the sewer

Promising therapy if PSA rises after prostate cancer surgery

Strong legs help power summer activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and more

Should you try intermittent fasting for weight loss?

Why are you taking a multivitamin?

Could eating fish increase your risk of cancer?
Staying Healthy
Inspect your nails for melanoma
Research we're watching
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) is encouraging people to examine not only their skin but also their nails for signs of cancer. Melanoma can develop under and around the fingernails and toenails. It often appears on the thumb or big toe of your dominant hand or foot, according to the AAD.
Signs of melanoma in and around the nails include a brown or black streak under the nail, a bump or nodule under the nail, darker skin around the nail, a nail that is lifting and pulling away from the nail bed, or a split down the middle of the nail. Melanoma becomes more common as people age and is highly treatable if detected early.
Image: sanjagrujic/Getty Images
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
You might also be interested in…

Skin Care and Repair
New information on treatments for both medical skin conditions and cosmetic problems is available in the Special Health Report Skin Care and Repair. This report describes scientifically approved treatments for common medical conditions from acne to rosacea, as well as the newest cosmetic procedures for lines, wrinkles, age spots, and other problems. An explanation of the ingredients in popular skin lotions and cosmeceuticals is also included.
Featured Content
- Skin and the aging process
- Common skin conditions
- Protecting your skin
- Skin rejuvenation procedures
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!