Footnotes / Blog

What is Melanoma in the Feet?

Melanoma is a type of aggressive skin cancer that originates from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. Although melanoma is more commonly found in areas such as the back or chest, between 3 to 15 percent of melanomas occur on the foot. This form of cancer has the highest fatality rate of all skin cancers, making early detection and treatment essential.

Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma

The most common symptom of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color, or texture of an existing mole. To help identify potential signs of melanoma, the ABCDE acronym is often used:

• Asymmetry: One half of the lesion is different from the other.
• Border: The edges of the lesion are irregular, ragged, or indistinct.
• Color: The lesion contains multiple colors or shades.
• Diameter: The lesion is larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolution: The lesion changes in size, shape, or color over time.

For foot-specific lesions, the CUBED classification is used:

• Colored: The lesion appears a color different from the surrounding skin.
• Uncertain: The lesion is difficult to diagnose or identify.
• Bleeding: The lesion bleeds or oozes fluid, especially if it is located on the foot or under the nail.
• Enlargement: The lesion continues to grow or worsen despite treatment.
• Delay: The lesion does not heal within 2 months.

Causes of Melanoma

Several factors can increase the risk of developing melanoma:

• Family History: A family history of melanoma increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Pale Skin, Freckles, Blue Eyes, Blonde Hair: People with lighter skin and these physical traits are at higher risk.
• Existing Moles: Having numerous moles or unusual moles can raise the risk of melanoma.

Diagnosis of Melanoma

If melanoma is suspected, a doctor will perform a physical examination of the lesion. A biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. If there’s concern that the melanoma has spread beyond the skin, additional imaging tests, such as MRI or PET scans, may be performed to assess the extent of the cancer.

Treatment of Melanoma

• Early-Stage Melanoma: If diagnosed early, surgery to remove the cancerous mole is the primary treatment.
• Advanced Melanoma: If the melanoma has spread to other areas, treatment may involve radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.

Prevention of Melanoma

The leading cause of melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Excessive sun exposure during childhood, particularly as an infant, increases the risk of melanoma later in life. To reduce the risk:

• Sun Protection: Always use sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed to the sun.
• Regular Skin Checks: Regular check-ups by a doctor are crucial for catching melanoma at an early, treatable stage.

Visit Innovative Foot & Ankle for Skin Cancer Concerns

If you suspect you have melanoma or another type of cancerous lesion on your foot, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced doctors at Innovative Foot & Ankle. We have four convenient office locations across Northern New Jersey, including:

• Montclair, NJ
• Little Ferry, NJ
• Kenilworth, NJ
• Bayonne, NJ