When you make the decision to see the podiatrist, you usually do so because you have noticed something wrong with the health of your feet or ankles. Thousands of people visit podiatrists every day. They receive examinations, diagnoses, and advice on how to treat their ailments. Sometimes a podiatrist will catch something a little bit different during an exam. If they see red scaly skin patches on the feet, they may diagnose you with mycosis fungoides.
Mycosis fungoides is a form of lymph cancer known for its scaly patched skin. The disease progresses slowly, usually over many years. As it forms it begins to make elevated skin lesions which later turn into tumors on the skin. It is considered a rare disease and is taken very seriously among medical professionals.
Currently, the cause of mycosis fungoides is unknown. It is thought to be linked to lymphoma. Researchers are working to study its causes and to learn more about the disease overall.
Symptoms:
Testing for Mycosis
If your podiatrist suspects that you are suffering from mycosis they will either refer you to a cancer specialist or they will take a skin biopsy. This cancer can show up on the feet or anywhere else on the body that is covered in skin. This means that it can affect the feet.
There is no cure for mycosis fungoides. Treatments such as steroid creams, electron beam radiation, or chemotherapy may be used, if it is in the early stages. It has been noted that the use of ultraviolet light can help to control the disease. Mild mycosis fungoides can be treated successfully with cortisone ointments.
Prognosis
Unlike some other lymphomas, the outlook is generally good for those who suffer from mycosis. Symptoms can usually be controlled with treatment. Unfortunately, treatment is not guaranteed to cure an individual of mycosis. Sometimes no matter what combination of treatment methods are utilized, the mycosis will stay on the individual who suffers from it.
Is your skin dry and patchy? Does it itch or hurt when you touch it? Think that you might have a skin condition? Call Dr. Andrew H. Cohen of Mid-Michigan Foot & Ankle Center located in Saginaw and Bay City, Michigan. It is important to find out what is ailing your feet as soon as possible so that you can prevent a more serious problem from cropping up. Call 989-790-8009 or make an appointment online today. Your foot health is our top priority.