People should be aware of their skin and look for any changing moles on a daily basis, this is called a ‘self-screen.’
It is advisable that people who don’t have any history of skin cancer should have a total body skin examination annually by a physician, If you have fair skin or you’ve spent lots of time in the sun, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor if you should get regular skin cancer screenings.
These screening checks by your regular doctor or a dermatologist can help find skin that could be cancer or might turn into it someday. That’s important because skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, but it’s also one of the easiest kinds to treat if you catch it early.
Here are some things to do before “ Skin Screening”:
- List any allergies, medications, and pre-existing conditions.
- Remove nail polish from fingernails and toenails.
- Take off all makeup and jewelry to provide a full view of your skin.
- Be sure your hair is clean so the doctor can perform a complete scalp check.
You’ll take off all of your clothes and put on a medical exam gown. Your doctor will ask if you have any moles that concern you. Then, they will then look at every inch of your body — from your face, chest, arms, back, and legs to less-visible places like your scalp, between your toes, and the soles of your feet.
FAQ about “Skin Screening”
How long does the procedure take?
This is variable, but commonly between 30 and 45 minutes.
Can I have a skin check and a procedure on the same day?
This can be done for smaller procedures, but more often will be booked into a separate procedure session.
Why can I get skin cancer in areas of my body which have not been regularly exposed to the sun?
A: Ultraviolet radiation is responsible for over 90% of skin cancers, but as with most types of cancer there is more than one cause. Another important cause is inherited genes which allow cancer to develop. Also, genes can be damaged by certain environmental chemicals or pollutants which will then allow the cancer to develop.
What the Doctor Is Looking For in a Skin Screening?
During a skin cancer screening, your doctor is checking for the “ABCDEs” of each mole, which are all possible signs of skin cancer:
- Asymmetry: Not the same shape on both sides
- Border irregularity: Ragged or blurred edges
- Color: Different shades of tan, brown, or black
- Diameter: Larger than 1/4 inch
- Evolving: Changes over time
In Upscale Bali, we do dermoscopy , it is the examination of skin lesions using a handheld device, called a dermatoscope.
This procedure is better at diagnosing skin cancer compared to inspection of a suspicious skin lesion using the naked eye alone. It can also specify & determine on which skin lesion that require a biopsy.
Dermoscopy is more accurate when interpreted with the patient present rather than using dermoscopy images.
