Useful Answers To Questions You Might Have About Skin Cancer Examinations
If you want to ensure the healthiest skin possible and also protect your overall well-being, you should consider scheduling a skin cancer examination with a dermatologist. This examination can help identify suspicious lesions or other skin abnormalities that may be cancerous. You'll have a better idea of what to expect from a skin cancer check after you've reviewed these common questions and answers about the process.
How does a dermatologist conduct a skin cancer screening?
The screening is done by visual examination to look for moles that appear to be abnormal or other areas on the skin that may indicate skin cancer. You'll remove your clothing and dress in a hospital gown for the exam. The dermatologist will also be sure to check for areas of the body that you might have trouble seeing on your own, such as your back and the top of your head. If any suspicious marks, lesions, or growths or discovered, a tissue sample may be taken so that it can be analyzed in a lab to look for cancer cells.
Does everyone need a skin cancer examination?
Skin cancer can affect people of all ages and skin tones, and everyone should try to schedule a comprehensive skin cancer screening with a dermatologist at some point. Some types of people are known to be more vulnerable to skin cancer than others, and you should schedule a screening if you have:
- Lighter skin and hair
- A family history of skin cancer
- Any previous sunburns
- More moles than the average person
- A suspicious skin growth that you've discovered
Can I also do an at-home skin cancer check?
Skin cancer checks can be done at home and are highly recommended, but you should still visit a dermatologist for a more thorough examination. Mirrors and sufficient lighting should be used for all skin cancer exams that you do at home. You should try to check as many areas of your body as possible, including under your arms and skin creases where skin cancer might be hiding.
What will happen if I'm diagnosed with skin cancer?
If skin cancer is diagnosed through testing, the dermatologist will inform you of the exact type of skin cancer that you have and recommend a course of treatment to try to eliminate the cancer. Oftentimes, skin cancer can be eliminated by simply cutting the cancer from the skin, and Mohs surgery may be recommended so that the cancer can be removed layer by layer to try to minimize scarring as much as possible. Freezing the cancer with cryotherapy or zapping it from the skin with electrosurgery may also be recommended. If you're diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer, additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, might be needed if the cancer is more advanced.
You might not even realize that you have skin cancer, and a skin cancer examination can let you know for sure. A local dermatologist can perform your skin cancer check at a convenient time and tell you more about what to expect.
For more information, contact a local clinic like Advanced Dermatology of Northern California.