Ask a doctor on the topic of Dermatology

Scratches or warts or light skin cancer?

December 1, 2013 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Christian Welsch

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am 22 years old and male.

A few days ago, I noticed a small reddish wound on my right foot (see photo), which appeared without any apparent cause. Uncomfortable shoes as a cause are ruled out, as the area is not touched by my shoes. A light skin cancer is not uncommon in such a location - could that possibly be a possibility? (By the way, I have never been inside a tanning studio)

My second question concerns a wart on my left hand (see photo). I have had it for about 5-6 years and have never paid much attention to it. Now, it is possible for a light skin cancer to have a wart-like appearance. About half a year ago, two smaller warts also appeared on my right index finger (see photo).

In conclusion, I am aware that there is no need for exaggerated concern. Even if we are dealing with a small Basal cell carcinoma, early removal is more of a medical routine. I just fear that one issue may be related to the other (foot and hand). Is that possible or are the issues on my hand just classic warts? After all, 5 years have already passed.

Thank you in advance for your response and kind regards.

Christian Welsch

Dear questioner, none of the photos you posted make me think of skin cancer. No. 1 looks like a harmless abrasion, 2 and 3 look like verrucas.
Of course, an examination by a dermatologist cannot replace such a diagnosis, I treat verrucas quite successfully in my practice with radiofrequency therapy, the recurrence rate is extremely low in my opinion compared to other alternatives.

If finding 1 actually occurred without external influence, I would have a dermatologist take a closer look with a microscope.

Do you have any questions? Regards, C. Welsch