Skin cancer is often associated with sun exposure. However, cancer can even affect areas of the body that don’t usually suffer from the effects of excess ultraviolet light, like the feet and ankles.
Skin cancer is often associated with sun exposure. However, cancer can even affect areas of the body that don’t usually suffer from the effects of excess ultraviolet light, like the feet and ankles. Growths on the skin can be cancerous, and since they can look a lot like other skin conditions, you should have your suspicious looking moles, warts, blisters, etc. properly inspected.
Some of the skin cancers that can affect your feet include the following:
- Potentially deadly melanoma—Melanoma growths begin on the top layer of the skin and then proceed inward. But, since they don’t spread very far on the surface, their malignancy can go unnoticed until the cancer has reached your circulatory and lymphatic systems. At this point, the cancer can spread throughout your body and become quite deadly. These cancers can also grow under your toenails where they look like toenail fungus, so be sure to see your foot doctor for proper identification.
- Squamous cell cancer—The painless but sometimes itchy bumps that are characterized by this type of skin cancer can have a very similar appearance to warts. Always have an evaluation done by your foot doctor.
- Basal cell growths—This is one of the least aggressive types of cancer since it tends to stay in the surface area without spreading very far inward. However, if left untreated, it can cause disfigurement and nerve cell and muscle injury. This cancer can also mimic psoriasis and eczema, so get it checked out.
Always see your foot doctor for any growths on your feet to help prevent cancer. The foot doctors at ETL Podiatry in Briarwood and Melville, NY have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle problems. Our team of doctors that includes Geoffrey C. Epstein, DPM, Matthew J. Tavroff, DPM, Stuart B. Leon, DPM and Robert J. Leon, DPM is dedicated to serving you with all of the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Melville, NY (631)-549-8637 and Briarwood, NY (718)-657-8921.
