When you think of seeing a podiatrist, you probably imagine care for your feet, ankles, nails, warts, ingrown toenails, or lower legs. What many people don’t realize is that podiatrists can also play a key role in detecting serious health conditions—including skin cancer.

At Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associates, Dr. Nick Romansky recently saw a patient whose story highlights how a routine visit can help save lives.

A Patient’s Story

The patient, a 63-year-old man and cancer survivor (tongue and mouth cancer), came in for a regular checkup. During the exam, Dr. Romansky noticed a black spot on the patient’s lower calf, where his pant leg often rubbed. The patient hadn’t paid much attention to it, but something about its look was concerning.

The area had changed, with irregular edges and uneven color, and had grown in size. He attributed this to pants rubbing this area. Because of the patient’s history of cancer, Dr. Romansky immediately referred him for further testing.

A biopsy confirmed it was malignant melanoma—an aggressive form of skin cancer. Even more concerning, testing showed it was already advanced (Stage 4), and the patient quickly began a full workup and treatment at the University of Pennsylvania with a team of specialists. This is not a typical concern, but it can develop into systemic problems. The patient required multiple tests, including a PET scan, radical surgical resection, and lymph node resection.

Image of melanoma on lower calf of 63 year old male patient     Image of melanoma on lower calf of 63 year old male patient

Why Podiatrists Matter in Skin Cancer Detection

This case shows why podiatrists often spot things patients don’t. Because they regularly evaluate the lower legs, feet, and toes, podiatrists may be the first providers to notice unusual skin changes, spots, or growths. Their role goes beyond just foot health—they’re often the starting point in getting patients to the right specialists quickly.

Melanoma Warning Signs

Melanoma isn’t always found on sun-exposed areas like the face or arms. It can appear on the toes, calves, soles of the feet, or anywhere on the body—even places you may not check often.

The ABCDE rule is a simple way to remember the key warning signs:

  • A – Asymmetry: One side looks different from the other

  • B – Border: Irregular, jagged, or blurred edges

  • C – Color: Multiple or uneven colors (black, brown, red, or white)

  • D – Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)

  • E – Evolving: Any changes in size, shape, or color

If you notice a spot on your skin that meets any of these criteria, it’s important to have it checked right away.

Image of melanoma after surgery on lower calf of 63 year old male patient     Image of melanoma on lower calf of 63 year old male patient 16 days post operation

The Takeaway

Melanoma can be life-threatening, but detecting it early makes a huge difference in treatment and survival rates. This skin cancer is not your typical superficial cancer. Your podiatrist may be the first to notice these warning signs. Cases like this demonstrate the importance of podiatry in overall health. Additional follow-up is absolutely critical. While this is skin cancer, it is a systemic disease. 

At Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associates, our mission goes beyond treating feet—we’re here to watch out for your overall well-being.

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