3 Skin Cancers That Can Affect Your Feet & Ankles

Skin cancers tend to affect parts of your body that get the most sun exposure such as the face, neck, upper arms, and hands. Although your feet and ankles don’t get a lot of sun, they are still susceptible to developing skin lesions and cancer that can be associated with not only UV exposure but also harsh chemicals, chronic skin inflammation, and viruses.

Skin cancers can look like warts, eczema, and common infections, it is important to have your foot doctor perform a complete inspection.

3 skin cancers that can affect your feet include the following:

1)    Melanoma—Malignant melanoma is one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, especially when it occurs unnoticed in a hidden part of your foot like the sole or even under a toenail. The lesions can look like warts, moles, and even bruises. Since the tumor tends to grow inward rather than spreading out, it can reach your circulatory system and metastasize to other parts of your body, so don’t take any chances.

2)    Basal cell—This cancer is caused by excessive exposure to sunlight and other ultraviolet rays such as from tanning beds. These tumors can look like other skin problems like ulcers, so have them checked out.

3)    Squamous cell—Cancer that affects the squamous cells can resemble a plantar wart, eczema, or athlete’s foot. This is a slow growing cancer in the initial stages. It can cause severe itching but isn’t usually painful.

Since cancerous lesions on your feet can mimic other skin conditions, always see your foot doctor for a proper evaluation. At E.J. Nemet Podiatry in Twinsburg,  E.J. Nemet, DPM, treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including sports injuries, pediatric foot problems, diabetic foot complications, nerve disorders, and toenail and skin conditions. With advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Dr. Nemet provides expert and compassionate care to patients in the Twinsburg and Beachwood areas. To contact us or to schedule an appointment, please call (234) 212-9940.