Patient’s Verruca Was Actually Skin Cancer

A bride-to-be who thought a small mark on her foot was a verruca was horrified to discover it was actually skin cancer and is now warning others to be more vigilant.

She noticed a pale spot on the sole of her foot and thinking it was a verruca, visited a chiropodist to have it treated prior to her wedding and honeymoon.

The chiropodist was unsure whether it was a verruca and after minor treatment, asked her to see a GP for a dermatology referral. This resulted in a visit to hospital for a biopsy, which revealed that it was actually a form of skin cancer.

Jayne, from Wrexham, North Wales, said:

“After being told it wasn’t a verruca something made me go to the GP to find out what it was.

“I never thought it would be skin cancer. I was so lucky it was caught early. It had only just started to spread.

“Most people don’t bother to check their feet but they should.”

Surgery was then arranged to remove the growth and Jayne has had additional treatment with removal of some lymph nodes and radiation injections to track how far the melanoma had travelled as well as a skin graft from her thigh to her foot.

Following surgery, she has been given the ‘all clear’ but still has 3 monthly check-ups.

She is now passionate about spreading the message about checking moles and seeking attention.

She has worked with the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons to produce a booklet about surgery and locally launched the Wrexham branch of North West Cancer Research which raises funds for cancer research.

Jayne said:

“If, by telling my story, I can make one person just look at their feet and go to their doctors, I’ll be happy.”

Mole Checks

Cosmedics Skin Clinics’ team of mole removal doctors recommend that everyone should carry out regular mole checks for any worrying signs – even in places that have not seen the sun.

Dr Ross Perry advises looking for the ‘ugly duckling’ syndrome – a skin lesion or blemish that simply looks wrong or different from the others – and seeking attention for any concerns as early as possible.

Mole Removal

Cosmedics Skin Clinics doctors offer private mole removal in London and Bristol clinics with no waiting list.

Moles are removed using the latest surgical techniques including laser mole removal; with trained doctors and surgeons. All moles are sent for testing (histology) as a precaution.

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.