Michelle Tagliamonte, a 58-year-old mother from Ohio, never imagined that her routine manicure would lead to a shocking diagnosis. In September 2024, she noticed two black lines on left thumbnail. At first, she assumed they were harmless and expected them to grow out over time.
However, when they remained unchanged by her next manicure appointment in October, she decided to seek medical advice. What she discovered was both alarming and life-changing: the lines were a sign of melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer.
Melanoma, while not as common as other types of skin cancer, is one of the most aggressive and dangerous. It has the potential to spread rapidly if not detected early.
Fortunately, for Tagliamonte, her cancer was diagnosed at stage zero, meaning it had not yet spread beyond the nail. Despite this early detection, the treatment required was extensive and invasive. She underwent a four-hour surgery that removed the affected tissue and included a skin graft to cover the exposed bone and tendon.
The Unlikely Discovery and Diagnosis
Tagliamonte had been getting regular manicures for years, and it was during one such session that she first took notice of the black lines. Like many others, she assumed they were a minor issue that would resolve itself.
However, after observing no changes for weeks, she became concerned and took photographs before covering them with polish. The realization that the lines were not disappearing prompted her to see a dermatologist.
A detailed examination confirmed her worst fears—the black discoloration was originating from the growth plate of her nail. The dermatologist diagnosed her with melanoma, and further tests determined that the cancer was still localized to her thumb.
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Had she ignored the signs or waited longer to get checked, the cancer could have progressed to a more dangerous stage, potentially spreading to other parts of her body.
Undergoing Surgery and Recovery
The necessary treatment was not easy. On January 17, Tagliamonte underwent an invasive four-hour surgery to remove the melanoma. Due to the location of the cancer, the procedure required more than just removing the affected nail.
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The doctors had to excise the cancerous tissue, exposing the bone and tendon, which then required a skin graft to heal properly. As a result, she permanently lost her thumbnail and was left with a significant scar running down her thumb.
Despite the physical changes, she remained positive. “I will never have a thumbnail ever again, but if I had let it go, I might have lost the tip of my thumb or worse, so I am very grateful,” she said. The surgery, though daunting, was successful, and she is currently on the road to recovery without any nerve damage.
Tagliamonte credits her attentiveness and quick action in seeking medical advice as the reason she was able to catch the melanoma before it spread. “I am very grateful that I caught it at stage zero and it was localized. I think it’s just a matter of being diligent to get myself checked out,” she emphasized.
The Link Between UV Exposure and Nail Cancer
The unexpected diagnosis has sparked concerns about the potential risks associated with UV exposure from nail salon treatments. Many salons use UV lamps to dry gel polish, a practice that has been questioned by dermatologists for its long-term effects.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, these lamps present a moderate cancer risk, though they are less harmful than tanning beds. The organization recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to hands at least 20 minutes before exposure to UV light or, better yet, avoiding these lamps altogether.
While the type of melanoma Tagliamonte developed was not linked to UV exposure, other forms of nail cancer, such as subungual squamous cell carcinoma, can be aggravated by repeated exposure to these UV lamps. Given these concerns, experts suggest letting nails air-dry naturally or using air blowers without UV lights to reduce potential risks.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of paying attention to even the smallest changes in our bodies. Unusual markings, persistent discolorations, or changes in nails should not be ignored, as they may be signs of underlying health issues.
Regular self-checks and dermatological consultations can make a significant difference in detecting conditions like melanoma early, improving treatment outcomes and saving lives.
Tagliamonte’s story is a testament to the power of early detection and the importance of being proactive about health. It underscores the need for awareness regarding skin cancer, especially in areas that are often overlooked, such as the nails. Her experience highlights a crucial message: if something seems unusual, it is always worth getting checked out.