Should You Remove Moles on Your Feet? Skin Changes

Q: Should You Remove Moles on Your Feet? Skin Changes

Hello： To be honest, I often have patients request to remove moles, and almost none of them are malignant; it's mostly to reassure the patients. <br>I only encounter a malignant melanoma every few years, and I usually have a good idea before the biopsy. <br>Statistical figures ne

Moles on the soles of the feet?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about a few moles that have appeared on the soles of my feet (two on the dorsum, one on the heel, and one on the side of the big toe).
Recently, I noticed a new mole on the side of my big toe, close to the sole, which is approximately 0.2 mm in size.
Should all moles on the soles of my feet be removed for safety? I have heard that they are more prone to changes.
Thank you, doctor.

Eric, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/11

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

Hello: To be honest, I often have patients request to remove moles, and almost none of them are malignant; it's mostly to reassure the patients.
I only encounter a malignant melanoma every few years, and I usually have a good idea before the biopsy.
Statistical figures need to be interpreted carefully; otherwise, taking them out of context can be alarming.
The incidence of malignant melanoma in Asian populations (or specifically, Chinese individuals) shows a relatively higher occurrence on the feet compared to other body parts, but the overall incidence of malignant melanoma in our population is not high.
Additionally, it's quite common to have moles on the feet; therefore, most moles on the feet are actually benign common moles.
Is this explanation clear? Wishing you peace.

Reply Date: 2010/08/11

More Info

When it comes to moles on your feet, it's essential to approach the topic with caution and awareness. Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body, including the feet. While most moles are benign and harmless, certain changes in their appearance can indicate potential health issues, including skin cancer.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that not all moles need to be removed. The decision to remove a mole should be based on several factors, including its size, shape, color, and any changes you may have noticed over time. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
- Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the mole, and the two halves do not match, it could be a concern.

- Border: Moles with irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges are more suspicious.

- Color: A mole that is not uniform in color, or has shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue, should be evaluated.

- Diameter: Moles larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) are more likely to be problematic.

- Evolving: Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color, or starts to itch, bleed, or crust should be examined by a healthcare professional.

In your case, you mentioned a new mole on the side of your big toe that is about 0.2mm in size. While this size is relatively small, any new growth should be monitored closely. It’s crucial to keep an eye on it for any changes in appearance or symptoms such as itching or bleeding. If you notice any changes, it would be wise to consult a dermatologist.

Regarding the concern that moles on the feet are more prone to becoming problematic, it is true that certain areas of the body, including the feet, can be at a higher risk for skin cancers like melanoma. This is partly due to the fact that the skin on the feet is often exposed to friction, pressure, and trauma, which can lead to changes in moles over time. Additionally, the feet are often overlooked during self-examinations, which can delay the detection of changes.

If you are considering mole removal, it is best to consult with a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend a biopsy if they suspect any abnormalities. If the mole is deemed benign, they may suggest monitoring it rather than removing it. However, if there are concerns about its appearance or potential for malignancy, they can safely remove it and send it for histopathological analysis to ensure it is not cancerous.

In summary, while not all moles need to be removed, it is essential to monitor them for any changes and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns. Regular skin checks, especially if you have a history of skin issues or family history of skin cancer, are vital for early detection and peace of mind. Always prioritize your skin health and seek professional advice when in doubt.

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