Dermatology is the branch of medical science responsible for the care and treatment of the skin, hair, and nails. A general practice dermatologist is a medically licensed doctor trained to treat diseases of the skin, hair and nails, and skin cancers. Many dermatologists also have additional training, such as training in Mohs surgery for the treatment of skin cancer.
It is estimated that one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer at some point in their lives. Fortunately, the cure rate is as high as 99% for most skin cancers if detected and treated early. When cancer, such as melanoma, is not detected and treated early, it can move to the lymph nodes and other organs in the body and is potentially fatal. That’s why it’s important to take your skin seriously and visit a dermatologist regularly if you’re at high risk of skin cancer.
Do I need to visit a dermatologist?
If you’ve never had an exam, consider seeing a dermatologist for an initial evaluation. The frequency of future visits depends on risk factors such as age, sun damage, and previous skin cancers. People at high risk of skin cancer should consider seeing a dermatologist at least once a year and more often if any skin changes are noted.
Who is considered at high risk for skin cancer?
Anyone who has been overexposed to the sun (sunburned), particularly in childhood, is at increased risk of skin cancer. People with fair skin, light-colored hair (blonde or red), blue or green eyes, or a family history of skin cancer are also considered to be at higher risk than others. Excessive exposure to tanning salons or radiation exposure, immune suppression or organ transplantation, and certain chemicals can also increase a person’s risk of skin cancer.
I fit one or some of the high risk factors, now what?
It is important to schedule a visit with a dermatologist to get a baseline of your skin health and to allow the dermatologist to evaluate any moles, blemishes, lesions, or skin growths. New growths or spots on the skin can be an indication of skin cancer. It is also important to note that moles and blemishes that you have had for a long time can occasionally change and develop cancer cells. Therefore, it’s important to allow an expert to do a full-body skin check to determine if you have any questionable or concerning areas that require further examination. Your dermatologist can also advise you on self-exams between medical exams. A self-exam makes you your own advocate for early detection and helps keep your dermatologist informed of any potential cancer cell changes.
What am I looking for during a self-exam?
Everyone should do regular skin self-exams for signs of changes, even if you don’t have any of the high-risk factors. Memorize your points and then review yourself once a month. If you try to check yourself every day, it’s hard to notice changes and you’ll go crazy! Signs to look for are rough or scaly areas, especially flat scaly areas that are red or brown; any existing moles or spots that are growing or changing; a sore that bleeds, scabs, or hurts and does not heal after two weeks or heals and comes back; a hard flat or sunken growth; a pearl-shaped lump; and any suspicious new growth. If you notice any of these conditions, you should see a dermatologist immediately.
