Late inguinal metastasis of a well-differentiated subungual squamous cell carcinoma after radical toe amputation

BACKGROUND. Although squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is commonly found on sun-exposed skin, this malignancy in nail beds is rare. There is a very low rate of metastases, especially for well-differentiated lesions without bony involvement. OBJECTIVE. To present a case of late inguinal metastasis after radical toe amputation 3 years previously for subungual SCC. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Case report. RESULTS. The patient received modified inguinal lymphadenectomy and adjuvant radiation therapy. No recurrence or metastases were observed for 12 months. CONCLUSION. For patients with subungual SCC postsurgery, it is important to regularly evaluate for a minimum of 3 years, despite the very low rate of metastases.