Exploring subungual onycholemmal cysts: A rare case report and comprehensive literature review

Abstract

Key clinical message Subungual Onycholemmal Cyst (SOC) is a rare nail abnormality with different clinical presentations which can mimic different nail malignancies, such as melanoma, SCC, or glomus tumor. It is necessary for dermatologists and dermatopathologist to be aware of this pathology to make the proper diagnosis and treatment. SOC is a rare nail abnormality which affects the dermis of the nail bed. SOC has different clinical presentations, including onychodystrophy, ridging, clubbing, thickening, pigmentation, or even normal appearance. It can mimic different nail malignancies, such as melanoma, SCC, or glomus tumor. In this report, we describe a 54‐year‐old man with unilateral second right finger nail onychodystrophy and onycholysis for 1 year. He did not have any history of recent trauma, pain, or bleeding. It was completely resected by surgery. Nail biopsy can contribute to the early diagnosis of SOC and improvement of treatment outcomes.

Keywords

• nail
• nail surgery
• nail tumor
• onycholemmal cyst