“Skin cancer screenings should be done annually.”
Skin cancer screenings – head to toe – exist. That was news to me, but I had my first one recently, and it brought me great peace of mind.
WebMD provides a description (with pictures) of various skin conditions. Some of them are part of what is analyzed in skin screenings.
Let’s look at the process. Aside from a little embarrassment for those of us who are not accustomed to being examined from head to toe, it is quite easy and fast.
I’d rather be embarrassed for a few minutes than dead forever, wouldn’t you?
Skin Cancer Screenings – The Process
Initial Consultation
Dermatologists, who have special training to diagnose and treat skin problems, are the physicians who conduct skin cancer screenings.
They are not Cosmetic Dermatologists, who specialize in surgeries for “eye bags,” facelifts, reconstructive surgeries, etcetera.
FIRST
After you make an appointment for the screening, you will fill out forms about your medical history and conditions. They become a part of your permanent record with that physician. You might be able to do that online well in advance of the appointment date.
Next
The doctor typically begins the screening session by asking questions about your medical history. You’ll discuss any previous skin issues, family history of skin cancer, and any changes in your skin or moles that you’ve noticed.
Note: I found a GREAT Dermatologist in the Northern Virginia area and would be happy to recommend him if you need services in that area. (He doesn’t know I’m writing this, so – NO – I’m not getting paid or any other benefits from recommending him here or elsewhere.)
Skin Cancer Screenings Involve Full-Body Examination
The dermatologist performs a thorough examination of your entire body, not just the areas exposed to the sun. You will wear a typical medical patient gown, and you will lie on your back and your stomach. The doctor will move your gown to allow inspection of large areas of skin and will recover you quickly. The physician scans through the hair on your head also to address skin issues. They will inspect your skin for any unusual moles, lesions, or growths.
An assistant may be in the room to take notes, as needed.
Dermatoscope Use
The dermatologist may use a dermatoscope, a special magnifying tool with a light, to get a closer look at suspicious moles or spots. This helps in identifying characteristics that might not be visible to the naked eye.
Photographic Documentation
In some cases, the dermatologist may take photographs of your skin or specific moles for future comparison. This helps track any changes over time and is especially useful for patients with numerous moles.
Biopsy Procedure ~
You Might – Or Might Not – Need One in Skin Cancer Screenings
I was lucky. I didn’t need one, and you might not either. However, when dermatologists find a suspicious spot, they may perform a biopsy. The doctor will take a sample of tissue from the body and send it to a lab for further analysis. This step is crucial for determining whether the spot is cancerous or benign. Click Here to learn more about biopsies.
Skin Cancer Screenings
“That’s All, Folks…”
Given that my dermatologist found no issues of concern, I have no personal experience giving me the ability to speak further on what happens if a malignancy were found. Thus, I’ll sign off for now and simply invite you back for more information on additional topics as they arise. I hope you’re having a wonderful summer!
Let’s Get Well, Stay Well, and Live Well
