Detecting skin cancer early can significantly improve treatment outcomes. At Abrams Dermatology, we encourage you to schedule annual skin exams, especially if you notice unusual changes, such as new moles, changes in existing moles, persistent itching, or any unexplained growths. Early detection and treatment can save your life.
Evaluate Your Skin, Hair, and Nails for Suspicious Growths
Skin exams are essential for monitoring your skin’s health. They consist of two parts: self-examination and professional dermatological assessments. Self-examinations involve regularly checking your skin for unusual changes, such as new moles or alterations in existing ones. This helps you identify potential issues early. Dermatological skin exams, conducted by a trained dermatologist, thoroughly evaluate your entire skin surface, hair, and nails. These exams can detect various skin conditions, including skin cancer, allowing for timely diagnosis and treatment, which is crucial for optimal outcomes.
Tips to Perform a Self-Examination:
- Choose a well-lit area and use a full-length mirror for better visibility
- Start by examining your face, including the ears, nose, and lips
- Check your scalp by parting your hair and using a comb or fingers
- Inspect your neck, chest, and torso, looking for new or changing spots
- Examine your arms, including the tops and undersides, as well as your hands and nails
- Sit down and check your legs, feet, and the spaces between your toes
- Look at your back and buttocks using a handheld mirror or by asking someone for help
- Pay attention to any existing moles and note any changes in size, color, or shape
- Keep track of new growths, sores, or spots that do not heal
- If you notice any concerning changes, contact us immediately for a skin exam
What Happens During Dermatological Skin Exams?
Physical Examination
During your dermatological skin exam, Dr. Abrams will carefully examine your skin for any unusual moles, growths, or changes. You’ll be asked about your medical history, including any previous skin issues or family history of skin cancer. The exam typically includes a full-body assessment, so be prepared to undress to your comfort. Dr. Abrams may use a dermatoscope to look at specific areas more closely. If necessary, he will discuss potential biopsies to investigate any suspicious findings.
Biopsy
During a biopsy, a small sample of the suspicious tissue is removed for further examination. The area will be cleaned, and a local anesthetic will be administered. Depending on the type of biopsy—shave, punch, or excisional—Dr. Abrams will use special tools to obtain the sample. After the sample is collected, it will be sent to a laboratory for analysis by a pathologist, who will check for abnormal cells. Once the results are available, you’ll receive guidance on follow-up appointments or additional treatments if necessary.
You May Need a Skin Exam If:
- You notice any unusual moles or skin lesions that have changed in size, shape, or color
- You experience symptoms that may indicate early skin cancer
- You have a personal history of skin cancer and want to monitor for recurrences
- You have 50 or more moles, increasing your risk for skin cancer
- You have moles that appear atypical or irregular in shape or color
- You have a family history of skin cancer, which may elevate your risk level
Skin Exams FAQs
How Often Should I Have a Skin Exam?
The frequency of skin exams can vary based on your risk factors. If you have a history of skin cancer, multiple moles, or a family history of skin cancer, Dr. Abrams may recommend annual exams. For individuals with healthy skin and no significant risk factors, a skin exam every 1-2 years is generally sufficient. However, it’s essential to conduct regular self-exams and stay vigilant for any changes in your skin.
What Should I Do Before My Skin Exam?
Before your skin exam, note down any specific concerns or changes you’ve observed in your skin. Consider keeping a list of any new moles or changes in existing moles and any symptoms like itching or bleeding. You may also want to avoid sun exposure or tanning beds for a few days before your exam, as this can make it easier for Dr. Abrams to assess your skin.
Schedule Your Consultation
Abrams Dermatology is committed to helping you maintain healthy skin through regular skin exams in Sarasota. By staying proactive and scheduling these exams, you can detect potential issues early, ensuring timely intervention and better outcomes. Regular skin assessments can help identify changes in moles, signs of skin cancer, or other skin conditions that require attention. Schedule a consultation for your skin exam today.
