Keep Your Feet Safe From Skin Cancer This Summer
With the concern of skin cancer always looming near
, it is important to take extra precautions with your face, arms or other parts of your body that are often exposed to the sun. In addition to preventing skin cancer on various overly exposed parts of your body, it is vital to take precautions with your feet as well. Skin cancers of the feet have several features in common with most being painless and a history of recurrent cracking, bleeding, or ulceration. Frequently individuals discover their skin cancer after unrelated ailments near the affected site.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is frequently seen on sun-exposed skin surfaces, and with feet being significantly less exposed to the sun, it occurs there less often. This form of skin cancer is one of the least aggressive cancers in the body. It will cause local damage, but only rarely spreads beyond the skin. Basal cell cancers may appear as pearly white bumps or patches which may ooze or crust being similar in appearance to an open sore. On the skin of the lower legs and feet, basal cell cancers often resemble non-cancerous skin tumors or benign ulcers.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This type of cancer is the most common form of cancer on the skin of feet and is most often confined to the skin and do not spread, similar to basal cell carcinoma. When advanced, some can become more aggressive and spread throughout the body. It is important to bring attention to any new developments on your feet to your podiatrist for early diagnosis. Squamous cell carcinoma often begins as a small scaly bump or plaque, which may appear inflamed.
Sometimes there is a history of recurrent cracking or bleeding as well. Occasionally they begin as a hard projecting callus-like lesion. Though painless, squamous cell carcinoma may be itchy. It may also resemble a plantar wart, a fungal infection, eczema, an ulcer, or other common dermatological conditions of the foot.
Malignant Melanoma
This is one of the deadliest skin cancers known and nonsurgical treatments are rarely effective, remaining experimental. This type of skin cancer must be detected very early to ensure patient survival. Melanomas may occur on the skin of the feet and on occasion beneath a toenail. They are found both on the soles and on the tops of your feet. As a melanoma grows and extends deeper into the skin, it becomes more serious and may spread throughout the body through the lymphatics and blood vessels.
Preventative Measures
The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid sunbathing and tanning salons. Sunscreen should be used frequently and before any prolonged exposure to the sun. All skin lesions should be checked and if changes are detected in a mole or skin lesion, if you are even mildly suspicious about the appearance of one, you should contact your podiatrist immediately.
People who have had melanoma once are at an increased risk for developing it again. You should watch your skin carefully and take note of any unusual marks or moles, especially ones that change in shape, size, or color. Protecting your skin from additional sun damage is very important.
by: Gen Wright
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