The Importance of Checking the Feet Daily

Skin cancers of the feet are unfortunately, often left undetected. Because of this, it’s extremely important that the feet are checked on a regular basis for any abnormalities or deformities. It’s also advised that you pay close attention to how wounds concerning the feet heal, as it has been known that cancers may form due to previous injuries. 

What Should You Be Looking For?

There are three main types of cancers of the feet. They include malignant melanomas, basal cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas. For most cases, you’ll want to check for anything resembling a mole, bump, or patch. If your abnormality is asymmetric, has a ragged border, is more than one color, or has a diameter greater than 6 millimeters, you should seek professional help as soon as possible.  To best identify which type of skin cancer you’re dealing with, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. In addition to their unusual appearance, these cancers may cause bleeding, itching, and foot pain.

Common Causes

While most skin cancers are usually caused by harmful sun exposure, cancers of the feet may also develop due to genetic factors, chemical exposure, viruses, or chronic inflammation.

Risk Factors

There are certain factors that may increase your risk of developing skin cancers. These may include, having a weak immune system, having many moles present on the body, having a history of sunburns, especially those that blister, and having less pigmented skin. Skin cancers can develop among those with darker complexions as well, however, those with a fair to light complexion should be particularly mindful of their exposure to ultraviolet light, due to their lessen melanin.

Diagnosis

If you believe you may have developed a skin cancer, we strongly recommend you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. During your consultation they will most likely perform a skin biopsy, which will tell if your lesion is cancerous or not.

The sooner skin cancers are diagnosed, the better. For more information on skin cancers or to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (386) 753-1918!