Help please! Waiting for biopsy on dark line on thumbnail

Hi, I have a similar story, a dark line appeared down my thumbnail about a year ago, GP unconcerned but after googling and realising what it could be I went back to see her. Finally got my appointment with Dermatologist yesterday and she said the line grows wider going into my cuticle and she suspects there is a mole underneath. I am now waiting for a biopsy (peeling back the skin, yuck) I am more uncomfortable at the thought of the biopsy right now and can focus on nothing else! I am a single parent and cater to my 10yr old son who has Autism and ADHD and I'm worrying that I won't be able to do all the cooking/cleaning etc. Anyone with experience of the biopsy procedure and aftercare please? Thanks in advance, Rachael 

  • Hello RaeRaeH, 

    I just wanted to welcome you to our forum and I hope that you will hear from some of our members who have had this type of biopsy done before on their thumbnail. I can completely understand why having to look after your 10 year old son, you would want to make sure that you will still be able to do things around the house after you've had your biopsy. Hopefully others who have had this procedure done before will be along shortly to tell you more about what to expect. Your medical team would also be able to provide additional information on this. 

    Don't hesitate to give our nurses a call as they may be able to answer questions you may have on this type of biopsy. You can call the Cancer Research UK nurses on freephone 0808 800 4040. The lines are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

    Best of luck with the biopsy and I hope it won't affect you too much and I keep everything crossed for you for good results. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

     

     

  • Hi,

    There are a few people on the forum who have had biopsies on their nails. If you search 'subungal' in the Search Forum tab at the top of the page you will be able to read about their experiences. 

    From what I've read & heard I think you will be in a little discomfort at first, especially if trying to handle stuff when cooking etc, so it may be a good idea to try & get some help at home for the first day or two. I know it's difficult with the Covid restrictions but now they've allowed a single person & household bubble perhaps you have a member of your family or a friend that can help?

    Good luck & I hope the results come back negative. Please let us know how you get on,

    Angie (melanoma patient)

  • Hi Angie,

     

    thanks so much for the response, I'll have a look tomorrow and see what experiences others have had. I don't really have anyone to help but hopefully will manage for a couple of days until it's better :) xx