Pigmented Skin Lesions Specialist

What do pigmented skin lesions look like?

Pigmented skin lesions on the feet can have a variety of appearances, like:

• Freckles
• Dark blue, grey, or black in color
• Varying shades of brown or skin tones
• Well-defined or poorly defined borders
• Round or irregular shape
• Increasing in size
• Raised or flat

Pigmented lesions on the feet are common, whether from birth or sun exposure. Examining your feet when bathing is an easy way to identify any pigmented skin lesions and determine if they’re changing or showing signs that there could be a problem, like cancerous changes of the lesion.

When is a pigmented skin lesion a problem?

Pigmented skin lesions become a problem when they grow in size, become darker in color, or have irregular borders. Some lesions may also bleed and flake off when scratched. 

These problems can indicate cancerous changes in the cells of the lesion and require an immediate exam at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists.

Taking steps to protect your feet from the sun is one of the best ways you can prevent the development of cancerous changes. Keep your feet covered if you’re going to be in the sun for long periods, or wear sunscreen on your feet if you wear sandals outdoors.

How are pigmented skin lesions diagnosed?

The team performs a variety of tests on pigmented skin lesions to determine what’s causing them and if they show signs of cancer. During a visual inspection, your podiatrist looks for abnormal changes to the lesion that can indicate problems.

After the exam, your podiatrist can collect a sample of your skin for testing. This may involve scraping or scratching the skin over the lesion or removing a portion using a small, sterile scalpel and local anesthetic. 

The skin sample is then examined under a microscope to identify the types of cells present in the sample. Based on this information, your podiatrist determines what type of pigmented skin lesion you have and if treatment is warranted.

How are pigmented skin lesions treated?

Not all pigmented skin lesions are cancerous, so the team may recommend a watch and wait approach if your lesion is benign and not causing you pain. 

If the lesion is painful or cancerous, the team can recommend procedures to remove it. Removal procedures, like cryotherapy or surgery, are available in the office for your convenience.

Schedule a skin exam at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC now by calling or booking online.