Whenever we find a bump or lump on our body that isn’t supposed to be there, it can be nerve-wracking. In some cases, these bumps appear on our feet. Warts and blisters can be harmless types of lumps, but in other cases, bumps can also be something more severe, such as cancer. Although it is not highly common, Kaposi sarcoma is a form of cancer that affects the feet and can cause suspicious bumps on the foot.

What Is Kaposi Sarcoma?

Kaposi sarcoma is cancer that develops from the cells that line lymph or blood vessels. It usually appears as tumors on the skin or in the mouth, but tumors can also develop in other parts of the body, such as in the feet, lymph nodes, lungs, or digestive tract.

The abnormal cells of Kaposi sarcoma form purple, red, or brown marks or tumors on the soles of the feet. These affected areas are called lesions. The skin lesions of Kaposi sarcoma most often appear on the legs or face. These may cause the legs and feet to swell painfully and make it hard to walk or stay mobile.

Kaposi sarcoma can cause serious problems or even become life-threatening when the lesions are in the lungs, liver, or digestive tract. If you see signs of the disease on your feet, then you should see a podiatrist right away to check to see if the disease has spread throughout other parts of the body, or is exclusively on the feet.

The most common type of Kaposi sarcoma in the United States is epidemic or AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma. Another type occurs mainly in the elderly population due to their naturally weakened immune system. Most of these elderly people are of Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern heritage. Classic Kaposi sarcoma is more common in men than in women. Patients typically have one or more lesions on the legs, ankles, or the soles of the feet. Compared to other types of Kaposi sarcoma, the lesions in this type do not grow as quickly, and new lesions do not develop as often.

Do you have red lesions cropping up on the soles of your feet? Are they painful to the touch or to walk on? It is time to see your podiatrist for a complete examination to rule out any other possible causes. Call Joseph Stuto, DPM of Brooklyn, New York. There Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Joseph C. Stuto will examine your feet and test for any underlying conditions that may be causing your foot and ankle issues. If you do test positive for Kaposi sarcoma, they will discuss treatment options that are best for you. Call 718-624-7537 and make an appointment today. Act before a small problem becomes a big one.