Ignoring a Mole in an Overlooked Spot, Woman Regrets Too Late as Can.cer Spreads

Most of us have at least one mole on our bodies. However, few people realize which mole characteristics could indicate can.cer.

 

 

A middle-aged woman surnamed Liu from Wuhan, Hubei, China, unexpectedly discovered she had cancer after visiting a dermatologist for a mole check. Like many others, she never paid much attention to the moles on her body, especially those in hidden areas or covered by clothing.

A Subtle Change That Went Unnoticed

Mrs. Liu had a small mole on the sole of her right foot since childhood. She only noticed it occasionally while bathing, washing her feet, or massaging them before bed. However, at the end of June this year, she suddenly realized the mole had grown in size. Since it wasn’t painful, itchy, or affecting her appearance, she ignored it.

Nearly two months later, she started feeling pain in the sole of her foot whenever she walked. Upon checking again, she saw that the mole had become much larger, swollen, and ulcerated. Assuming it was a common skin condition, she applied topical medication, but the wound worsened and spread.

By September, she decided to see a dermatologist at a private clinic. The doctor advised her to visit a central hospital, as the issue seemed more serious than a typical skin problem. After further consultation, her family took her to the Limb Surgery Department at Puren Hospital in Wuhan in October.

Shockingly, test results confirmed that the mole on her foot was actually a malignant melanoma—a highly dangerous form of skin cancer.

Doctor’s Warning: Moles That Signal Skin Cancer

Dr. Chen Lei, a resident physician at Puren Hospital, examined and treated Mrs. Liu. He recalled, “When she arrived, her foot was severely swollen, with reduced mobility and poor peripheral sensation. Blood circulation and joint function were slightly impaired. In the middle of her right sole, there was an irregular, round tumor about 3.5 cm in diameter, dark red, ulcerated, and oozing fluid.”

The doctors conducted further tests and decided to surgically remove the surface tumor. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of malignant melanoma, which had already begun spreading to nearby lymph nodes and affecting her foot bones.

Dr. Chen added, “This malignant tumor has a high risk of recurrence and metastasis. If left untreated, it could lead to systemic symptoms such as weight loss and loss of appetite. Melanoma on the sole of the foot can metastasize to the lymph nodes, brain, bones, or other areas, affecting mobility and potentially becoming life-threatening.”

The Dangers of Overlooking a Mole

Since the cancer had already spread, Dr. Chen, in consultation with Chief Surgeon Peng Hanshu, performed another surgery to remove the tumor. Despite efforts to preserve as much tissue and bone as possible, the procedure still affected Mrs. Liu’s ability to walk. Furthermore, her weakened immune system increased the risk of recurrence.

Chief Surgeon Peng Hanshu used this case to remind people to regularly check their moles, especially those in high-friction areas such as the palms, soles, intimate regions, or scalp—areas frequently exposed to sunlight.

While most moles are harmless and primarily a cosmetic concern, some are inherently cancerous. Others may become malignant due to external factors such as friction or UV exposure. He highlighted five warning signs of a cancerous mole:

1. Changes in Size and Borders – A mole that suddenly grows or develops irregular edges may indicate skin cancer.
2. Unexpected Changes in Texture – Normal moles have a consistent texture. If a mole suddenly becomes harder or softer, it should be examined.
3. Unusual Coloration – Healthy moles usually have a uniform color, typically brown or light black. Moles with uneven pigmentation, sudden darkening, or color changes should be checked.
4. Altered Shape – Moles that sink, become raised, or take on irregular shapes like stars, polygons, or crescents could be signs of melanoma.
5. Irritation or Abnormal Damage – Normal moles are smooth and painless. Cancerous moles may become rough, itchy, cracked, scaly, bleeding, swollen, or ulcerated.

At this stage, people should not ignore or self-treat their moles, as Mrs. Liu initially did. Instead, they should seek evaluation at a reputable hospital, especially middle-aged and older individuals. As we age, our immune system weakens, increasing the likelihood of moles becoming malignant tumors. Even after treatment, regular monitoring and follow-ups are necessary to prevent recurrence.