Q. I have a dark spot on my heel. Should I be worried?

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A 70 percent risk of the lesion transforming into melanoma as irregular borders with increased melanin pigment or melanosis is noted (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). Histopathology reports are mandatory to rule out malignancy (melanoma). If found malignant, wide excision of the lesion is required to avoid metastasis of the tumor. Risk factors are increasing age, tanning beds, fair skin tone, genetic or hereditary factors. Do you have any family history of melanoma? Did you have prolonged exposure to the sun or UV (ultraviolet) rays? Do you have any history of injury or microtrauma? Is the lesion itchy or painful? Please answer the above questions so that I can give further details and preventive measures. Thank you.

Hi,

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Unusual scars on the skin, frequent exposure to certain chemicals, severe sunburn or injury, certain skin conditions, elderly population, multiple moles or dysplastic nevi, and weak immune system are also causes of malignancy. Signs could be a raised area, formation of ulcer, rough and scaly area, change in shape or size of existing mark or discoloration, a non-healing sore that started as a patch or rash, a growth that bleeds easily and crusts over. Wear protective and comfortable footwear. Avoid friction and occlusion. Do a self-examination of the skin to look for changes and detect them early. Order a skin biopsy and histopathology. A sample tissue will be removed from the site and sent to the laboratory for examination under the microscope. It is a suspicious-looking mole on the skin (any part of the body, not necessarily in a sun-exposed area).

Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Dhepe Snehal Madhav

Experience: 7 + Yrs

Venereology

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