Symptoms
- Cracked Foot Not Healing
- A Growing Assymetric Patch
- A sore that appears for no reason and does not heal
- A circular nodule with a depression in the centre
- An isolated rough area on the skin
- A resilient plantar wart
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, and is caused by changes in melanocytes, which produce a skin pigment called melanin. Often patients will neglect to inspect between their toes, nail beds, and soles of their feet. Visiting your podiatrist is one of the best ways to avoid missing suspicious lesions (that might otherwise be missed by you). Ask your podiatrist to inspect the skin of your feet and ankles, especially if a family history was positive for skin cancers.
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FAQs
What Are the Incidence and Risks of Melanoma?
The risks of skin cancer are considerable. Due to the increased incidence, the risk of developing melanoma in 2010 was about 1 in 50 compared with 1 in 1,500 in 1930, representing an increase of 2,000%. Therefore, preventive counselling is recommended to rapidly detect the presence of skin cancer and prevent malignant melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer.
When to Consult for Melanomas?
As soon as you become aware of a suspicious lesion on your foot, it is recommended that you consult a podiatrist to prevent contagion. In order not to distort the diagnosis, it is recommended that you apply no medication for three weeks prior to your consultation.
Who Is Most at Risk of Melanomas?
People whose family and personal histories reveal the presence of skin cancer are at higher risk. Moreover, the frequency of sunburn can increase the risk of developing melanoma. Finally, artificial tanning is also a risk factor for skin cancer. Note, however, that the sun is not the main cause of skin cancer of the feet. The NDG Podiatry Clinic specializes in the prevention and diagnosis of melanomas and other foot diseases. Visit our podiatrist today.