What You Need to Know About Visiting a Dermatologist for Skin Cancer

Visiting a dermatologist plays a role in maintaining skin health, especially when it comes to detecting and addressing skin cancer. Regular check-ups can help identify potential issues early, increasing the chance of successful treatment. Knowing what to expect when visiting a dermatologist for a skin cancer screening, understanding your risk factors, and exploring treatment options can be helpful.

Table of Contents

Skin Exam

A skin exam by a dermatologist is a thorough evaluation for irregularities or signs of skin cancer. This screening typically includes:

Full-body Inspection: The dermatologist examines your skin from head to toe, focusing on moles, freckles, and lesions. They check for asymmetry, irregular borders, color changes, or size growth.
Dermatoscope Use: A dermatoscope may be used for a closer, detailed view of the skin’s surface.
Biopsy Procedures: If a suspicious lesion is found, the dermatologist may perform a biopsy. This involves removing a small sample for lab testing.

Wearing minimal makeup and nail polish can help the dermatologist assess your skin more easily.

Risk Factors

Knowing your skin cancer risk factors helps you and your dermatologist take proactive steps. Prolonged UV exposure, including tanning beds, increases risk, especially for those with fair skin, which has less melanin and is more vulnerable to damage. A family history of skin cancer may indicate a genetic link, and having many or atypical moles also raises melanoma risk. Severe sunburns are tied to higher skin cancer risk. Be ready to share your medical and family history during your appointment for better risk assessment and personalized advice.

Types of Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma are the three most common types. BCC, the most common type, appears as a translucent bump or scaly patch that grows slowly and rarely spreads. Conversely, SCC often appears as a rough, red patch or wart-like growth and can spread if left untreated. Melanoma is the most serious type, usually appearing as an irregular mole, and it’s helpful to watch for the ABCDEs: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving.

Treatment Options

If skin cancer is diagnosed, the dermatologist will discuss treatment options based on the type, stage, and location of the cancer. Standard treatments include:

Surgical Excision: This is the most common treatment. It involves removing cancerous tissue and a margin of healthy skin to allow for complete removal.
Mohs Surgery: Often used for non-melanoma skin cancers, this procedure removes cancer layer by layer. Each layer is examined under a microscope for precision.
Cryotherapy: Precancerous lesions and early-stage cancers can sometimes be treated by freezing the affected tissue with liquid nitrogen.
Topical Treatments: Certain skin cancers may respond to topical medications, which target cancerous cells.
Radiation Therapy: Advanced cases or cancers in inoperable areas may require radiation to treat the affected regions.
Targeted and Immunotherapy: Drugs targeting cancer cells may be used to treat advanced melanoma. These treatments can also boost the immune system to fight the disease.

Early detection allows for less invasive and more effective treatments. This highlights the necessity of regular dermatological visits.

Strengthen Skin Health with a Dermatologist

Maintaining your skin’s health starts with knowledge and regular dermatological care. By understanding what happens during a skin cancer screening and being aware of personal risk factors, you can take informed steps to prioritize your well-being. Knowing the treatment possibilities also helps you make better decisions for your health. Contact your dermatologist today if you’re due for a skin check or have questions about skin cancer prevention.