How to Recognize Skin Cancer on Your Feet
Are you planning to spend time in the sun this summer? Dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 on any exposed skin. Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm, urges you to remember your feet when slathering that SPF on the rest of your body. It’s the easiest way we know to help prevent skin cancer on your feet.
However, the sun’s rays are only one cause of skin cancer. Others include:
- Your family history
- Chronic irritation or inflammation
- Exposure to chemicals
- Viral infections
So, even if summer fun in the sun is not really your thing, it’s helpful to know what skin cancer looks like.
What to look for
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. The first two generally stay where they are, whereas melanoma is apt to spread to other body parts, making it the most dangerous type. All three forms of skin cancer may present in very different ways. When you examine your feet, as we hope you do regularly, look out for the following signs of cancer:
- Crusty areas of skin
- Patches of skin that ooze
- Small, scaly bumps
- Areas of skin that crack and bleed
- Mole-type lesions with asymmetric or jagged borders
- Black areas under a toenail
Skin cancer may look like other, more common types of lesions. You may think you’ve got a callus, plantar wart, or even a simple cut or scrape. Watch for color, diameter, and symmetry changes in that suspected callus. It may not be a callus if it’s getting bigger, darker, or has irregular borders. If a sore looks unusual or doesn’t heal, please make an appointment with us so we can check it out.
Cancer is treatable when caught early, so don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Wilhelm at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center if you have a suspicious lesion on your foot. Call our office in Centreville, Virginia, at (703) 996-3000 or contact us online.
