| Abstract [eng] |
Introduction: The nail phalanx is the distal part of the finger, consisting of bone, soft tissues and nail apparatus, which are necessary for the structural support and function of the nail. The nail plate, matrix and nail bed, which make up the nail apparatus, perform protective and aesthetic functions. Tumors of the nail phalanx are rare, but their diagnosis and treatment pose challenges. Malignant tumors, such as subungual melanoma, squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas, are characterized by high invasiveness and risk of recurrence, while benign formations, such as glomus tumor, fibrokeratoma or onychomatricoma, can cause nail deformation and pain. The diagnosis of these pathologies often requires a multidisciplinary approach, therefore a systematic review of the latest research is necessary in order to optimize diagnostic and treatment standards. Purpose of the study: The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence, diagnosis and treatment characteristics of nail phalanx tumors, based on the latest literature data. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Medline databases to collect reliable data on the prevalence, etiology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, and treatment methods of nail phalangeal tumors. The review included 63 articles published from 2014 to 2025 in English or Lithuanian, examining only human nail phalanx tumors. Results: Nail phalanx tumors are divided into malignant and non-malignant. The most common malignant tumors are subungual melanoma, squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas, which are characterized by invasiveness and risk of metastasis. The most common benign formations are glomus tumor, fibrokeratoma, onychomatricoma, Koenen‘s tumors - they can cause functional disorders and aesthetic discomfort. Diagnostic methods include clinical examination, dermoscopy, histology analysis, and imaging (MRI, CT, ultrasound). Treatment strategies depend on the type of tumor: surgical excision remains the main treatment for malignant tumors, while benign tumors can be treated with destructive or minimally invasive methods. In cases of malignant tumors, systemic therapy - chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy - can be applied. Conclusions: Diagnosis of nail phalanx tumors remains difficult due to their rarity and nonspecificity of symptoms. Early diagnosis, based on dermoscopy and histology, is necessary to reduce mortality from malignant nail tumors. Surgical treatment remains the main treatment method, but complex, individualized therapy may improve the long-term prognosis of the patient.Further scientific research should be aimed at optimizing diagnostic algorithms and developing new therapeutic strategies. |
