Melanoma by Dr. Vieira

Melanoma

By Evan A. Vieira, DPM, AACFAS

Summer is over, tans are fading, and skin spots are rearing their ugly heads. Usually, we think of these problem areas showing up on the face, chest, back and shoulders. However, they can be found anywhere on our bodies-regardless of sun exposure.

Our arms, hands, legs and feet should not be ignored during exams. In some cases, it's not a matter of forgetfulness but a physical inability that prevents patients from adequately inspecting their feet. Some people just can't get a proper view, either because of their back pain, lack of mobility, or poor eyesight.

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin canser, and is caused by changes in melanocytes, which produce a skin pigment called melanin. The rate of melanoma is steadily increasing, and your risk also increases with age. However, it can be found in young people, especially those with multiple risk factors. These include, but are not limited to, fair skin, light eyes, red or blonde hair, people who live in sunny climates, work outside for prolonged periods, have had one or more blistering sunburns during childhood, and those who use tanning devices. Patients with a family history of melanoma, certain types of moles or multiple birthmarks or a weakened immune system, also have higher risk.

One of the most common requests patients have for doctors is an evaluation of skin spots, moles, bumps, sores and so on. So, how do we differentiate what is dangerous and what isn't?

When we examine your feet, there are a few key things that we look for to spot any problem areas. Becoming familiar with the ABCDE system is important for all patients. This system is a simple way to perform important self-exams on a regular basis to keep an eye out for early signs of disease.  A  symmetry: one half of the lesion is different from other half.  B  orders: The edges of the lesion are irregular.  C  olor: Changes from one area to another with shades of tan, brown, black, blue, red or white. There may be a mixture of many colors within one lesion and a breakage in skin may be present.  D  iameter: The spot is usually larger than 6mm in diameter, but can be smaller.  E  volution: The lesion keeps changing in appearance.

These basic criteria are crucial to the early identification of melanoma when treatment is most successful. Remember, early detection is facilitated by regular check ups and a basic awareness of what to look for. For example, many patients come in for evaluation of discoloration in dark in color, has progressed rapidly, and has become painful, these could be signs of a far more serious condition like melanoma.

Too often patients neglect to check in between their toes, on their nail beds and on the soles of their feet. Regular visits with your podiatrist are the best way to avoid missing discrete lesions that might otherwise be inaccessible to you.

For more information on melanoma, please contact our Long Island foot doctors at Advanced Podiatry today at either our Manhasset, Huntington, Coram, Woodbury, Mineola, Williston Park & Maspeth, Plainview NY practice location! Or  contact us  through our site's request form.

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