Imaging of tumors of the nail unit

Abstract

In case of suspicion of a deep mass beneath the nail plate, radiographs remain necessary to assess the distal phalanx and the distal interphalangeal joint. Ultrasonography may be helpful to depict a cystic or a vascular component of a tumor. Computed tomography is only indicated to accurately assess tiny abnormalities of the cortex of the distal phalanx. MR imaging offers a whole imaging of the soft parts of the nail unit and the underlying bone.