Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is a cancer that begins in the skin cells that produce pigmentation. It is a very aggressive cancer as it easily spreads to other parts of the body under the skin surface.

The news is making us more aware of the increased risk of skin cancer and this does include our feet. It is very important that you check your feet regularly for new moles and changing moles just like you should do for the rest of your body. Malignant melanomas are more easily treated when they are caught early but sadly by the time melanoma of the foot and ankle is found it may have already progressed to an advanced stage. Prevention and early detection is key to a better outcome.

Causes

Most causes of skin cancer are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or sunbeds. Be more aware if you have:

• fair skin
• blistering sunburns as a child
• numerous moles

Signs of a malignant melanoma

• change in size: mole become lumpy or spread outwards
• change in shape: irregular, ragged edge
• change in colour: develop a reddish edge, darker, brown/black.
• oozing or discharge
• itching
• crusting or bleedings

Any mole that you are worried about you should have it checked out immediately by your doctor.