Suspected Subungual melanoma

Good morning all

I am worried sick! I had what I thought was a bruise under my toenail and realised lately it has still not grown out after over three years. My nail are very sensitive, for example I cant have a nail varnish layer over it as it hurts and I can feel the sore most of the time in the background if that makes sense. More recently my whole toe is a bit achy too. So i saw my GP on Tuesday and he called a colleague in who looked at it too and she looked through a special magnifier thing. She said "there is not blood spatter there, so its not a bruise" and they both kept saying Subungual melanoma and i needed a 2 week urgent referral. He sent pics off to the hospital and now I have a appointment on Monday. I am so worries I have not slept well for days! What else could it be if not a melanoma and not a bruise? They seemed convinced it was not a fungal thing either. (I thought I would just get anti biotics for a fungal nail or something and leave!).....Any help or advice gratefully received. I know Monday is nearly here, but seems an age away! What else can it be? Thanks :)

  • Hello DorsetBear 

    I'm sorry to hear that your'e feeling so anxious ahead of your dermatology appointment on Monday. We know that many people find this period of waiting and uncertainty to be very difficult and it's understandable that things might feel overwhelming at times. 

    As you say, not too long now until you see the specialist and hopefully they will be able to give you some answers and reassurance on Monday when you see them. In the meantime, I wonder if you might find it helpful to chat things through with one of our nurses. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can ahead of your appointment. If you'd like to talk with them they're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Do let us know how you get on DorsetBear. We're here for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Thank you - If I have a wobble over the weekend, I will get in touch. other than that I will go to my appointment on Monday and reach out depending on what is said!

    Thanks again for such a kind reply :)