Sunscreen on the Feet

As vacations and summer fun approach, it is essential to remember our sunscreen! Often, we forget about our feet when at the pool or beach. A terrible sunburn on the feet can make wearing our fun summer sandals impossible and can ruin the rest of the trip! Thus, it is important to lather the feet with sunscreen, even the heels if they will be exposed to the sun. It is also important to remember to apply more sunscreen the longer you are outside, as it wears off when outside for prolonged periods. Plus, using sunscreen can help protect the body from the sun's dangerous rays and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Happy Summer! Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580.

Malignant Melanoma-Lentigo Maligna

Another form of malignant melanoma is lentigo maligna melanoma. This form is often caused by sun exposure, and the ears, nose, arms, and face are common areas that is will develop in. This form of melanoma is more common in the elderly. The lesions can start as flat spots that gradually may become malignant. This is why it is important to check any moles or spots on your skin and alert your doctor to any changes. Asymmetry, abnormal borders, color changes in the lesion, diameter thicker than a pencil eraser, and any lesion that is changing (itching, draining, or any other changes) are all important things to watch for when evaluating a mole. It is important to keep an eye on your skin and watch for any changes. The skin is the biggest organ in our bodies, so keeping it healthy is essential. Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580

Reduced Office Hours

Dr. Bender will be working a reduced schedule this week due to an illness in the family. Please call Kasia to check her schedule at 708-763-0580. Happy Sunday to all!

Superficial Spreading Melanoma

A friend recently posted on facebook that she was being treated for malignant melanoma. Malignant melanoma is a serious and life threatening form of skin cancer. Often, we hear about applying sunscreen when outdoors and checking our skin for any changes. However, we do not always adhere to these recommendations. Thus, I am writing a four part series on malignant melanoma, as some of the forms can readily affect parts of the foot. However, this form of cancer is important to know about for any skin changes throughout our bodies. The most common form of malignant melanoma is superficial spreading, comprising up to 70 percent of melanoma diagnoses. This form may originate from a previously benign or normal mole or freckle which suddenly or even gradually changes color, shape or contour, or begins to itch. People with a family history of this form of cancer, those who have weakened immunity, those with a history of overexposure to the sun in adolescence, and people with over 100 moles on their bodies are at higher risk for developing this cancer. Early detection and treatment allow for the the best outcomes, so it is essential to show any abnormal or changing moles to your doctor as soon as you notice them. A biopsy (or portion of the skin) will be removed, and if there are abnormal or cancerous cells identified in the skin, a larger portion of the skin will be removed. Further treatment from an oncologist may also be needed. Dr. Bender