Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Every day, about 9,500 skin cancer cases are diagnosed on average, more than all other types of cancer combined.
That’s alarming but good news: Most skin cancers are highly treatable when diagnosed early. Even the deadliest form — melanoma — has a high survival rate when the cancer is caught in its early stages.
Most people know the importance of wearing sunscreen to prevent skin cancer, but regular skin cancer screenings play a vital role, too. In recognition of Skin Cancer & Melanoma Prevention Month, the team at Dermatology Associates of Central NJ is dedicating this post to a better understanding of the screening process so you know what to expect during your screening appointment.
Before your screening, remove any nail polish so we can see your nail beds and the areas around your nails. Also, remove makeup that could hide discoloration associated with skin cancer, and wear your hair loose so we can see your scalp more clearly.
Before your skin evaluation, we review your medical history and discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have. This is the time to point out any odd-looking moles, discolored or rough patches, itchy or painful spots on your skin, or hard-to-heal sores. We’ll also ask you to change into a medical gown.
Skin cancer can happen anywhere you have skin, including your scalp, under your fingernails and toenails, and in areas of your body never exposed to the sun. During a skin cancer screening, our team quickly but thoroughly examines your skin from head to toe, looking for signs of cancer or “pre-cancers” — areas of skin that exhibit changes indicating they might turn into cancer.
In addition to an “eyes-on” exam, we may use a special scope called a dermoscopy to evaluate unusual areas of skin. Dermoscopy is completely noninvasive, and special magnifiers and bright lights enable our team to examine the skin and its structure closely.
If we identify an unusual mole or lesion, we’ll probably take a tiny tissue sample (a biopsy) that can be evaluated under a microscope. Biopsies are quick, and before taking the tissue sample, we numb the area using a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable.
Once the skin evaluation is complete, we spend some time discussing your skin cancer risk factors and making recommendations to help prevent skin cancer, like the proper way to use sunscreen and what to look for during a self-examination of your skin. We’ll also recommend follow-up screenings based on your risk factors.
If you’ve had a biopsy during your exam, you can expect to receive the results in about a week. Based on those results, we may recommend a regular follow-up visit or treatment to remove a cancerous or precancerous lesion.
Skin cancer screening is important for everyone, regardless of age, health history, sun exposure history, or skin tone. To schedule your screening, request an appointment online or over the phone today at Old Bridge, Freehold, Union, or Tom’s River, New Jersey.
