Hi everyone,

I’m feeling really anxious and would love some advice or reassurance. My little one (2 years old) has had a vertical black line on their thumb for about 5 months. It’s around 2mm, no history of trauma, and in the last month, it has definitely grown and darkened—though not dramatically, it’s still noticeable.

We were referred to the dermatology unit at the hospital, and today we had our appointment. One specialist examined it and told their colleague they would recommend a biopsy because the line seems to extend slightly ito the nailbed. However, their colleague said that they don’t usually do biopsies in children that young and prefer to monitor instead as it is usually benign

They then called in another doctor for a third opinion. She reassured us that subungual melanoma is extremely rare in children—so rare that she doesn’t think there’s ever been a reported case in a child this young. She also said the borders were straight and regular, so she wasn’t concerned and decided against a biopsy. Instead, they took photos and plan to review it again in a few months.

What’s been playing on my mind is something I overheard. One doctor asked, “So do we not usually check again on children this young?” and the senior doctor responded, “Not usually.”

Now I’m worried—why did she say that? Does this mean they’re considering the possibility of something serious but don’t want to alarm me? Should I push for a biopsy now instead of waiting?

I just can’t shake the anxiety, and I don’t want to regret not acting sooner if it turns out to be something serious. Has anyone been through something similar? Would really appreciate any advice or thoughts.

Thank you