Most skin cancers can be treatable and managed if they are detected early. Melanoma, a more complex type of skin cancer, can spread to other parts of the body if it’s not detected and treated early. That is why cancer screening is essential, and it involves a closer examination of your skin by a dermatologist. A Bowling Green Dermatologist will perform all the necessary tests if you are concerned that you have skin cancer indications. The experts will perform advanced skin cancer screening and recommend the necessary treatment options.
Below, we will have a deeper look at everything you should understand about skin cancer screening and what to expect during the examination.
Who should consider going for cancer screening?
It is advisable to go for cancer screening if you have a history of melanoma and if you have any of the following indications;
· More than two of your relatives have skin cancer
· Recent exposure to radiation or you have had a radiation treatment
· History of severe skin burns
· Excessive exposure to sunlight
How to prepare for a skin cancer screening examination
If you have booked an appointment with your dermatologist for a skin cancer screening examination, then here are some of the things you should consider before going for the exam.
· Remove any nail polish, as this will allow your doctor to perform a complete analysis of your nails and fingers.
· Avoid wearing any makeup. This is for easy analysis of your face by the doctor.
· Make sure your hair is loose for easier analysis of your scalp.
· Always inform your doctor of any concerns like skin patches and any abnormal spots on the skin.
What to expect during the examination
Here is what you should expect when you are undergoing a skin cancer screening examination;
Before the doctor begins the examination, you will be asked to remove all your clothes, which may include your undergarments, and put on a gown. Your doctor will then perform a head-to-toe analysis of the skin, which may include your genitals and buttocks. If anything suspicious is discovered, then your doctor will decide if it should be immediately removed or monitored over time. A sample tissue can be removed and sent to the lab for analysis if it is cancerous, and the results can be expected within a week or two.
What the doctor looks for during the screening.
During the examination process, your doctor will analyze for the presence of any irregularities, which include;
· Patches that are different from the surrounding skin
· Presence of bleeding sores
· Discolored areas in the skin
· Presence of nodules or lesions
· In the analysis of moles, your doctor will check if their diameter is more than ¼ inch, if they change over time, have irregular borders, and inferior asymmetry.
Contact a dermatologist today
If you are at risk of contracting skin cancer or have indications of skin cancer, a cancer screening examination will be essential for early detection and treatment since 90% of skin cancers can be treatable if diagnosed early, according to the WHO. Suppose you need a cancer screening test; a dermatologist will be the right person to contact. Call or book an online appointment with Dr. Skaggs MD, who will recommend a skin cancer screening for you based on your current situation and health history.
