Researchers in Orange County are helping identify a condition unique to longtime surfers that may be mistaken for cancer.
Dermatology Professor Dr. Jeffrey Klein at UC Irvine led research into identifying the fatty, benign growths, called “liposurfomas,” that develop on surfers’ chests.
These growths can develop at points on the chest wall from repetitive low-intensity trauma due to contact with the surfboard while prone paddling, according to the study, which followed seven patients with the condition.
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These masses appear to uniquely affect shortboard surfers and gradually increase in size with increased surfing activity.
Dr. Klein told KNX News these benign masses can often be mistaken for cancer, leading to unnecessary testing and treatment…