Skin Cancer - Diagnosis 

Self-Exam

The diagnosis of skin cancer often begins when a person notices a skin change during a simple self-exam. Many experts suggest a monthly self-exam, especially in individuals who have a previous history of skin cancer.

• After a bath or shower, you should examine your skin in a bright room that has a full-length mirror. A hand-held mirror will help you see the front, back, and sides (including the underarms and backs of the legs and feet), as well as the skin between the buttocks, the genital area, soles of the feet, spaces between the toes, and the scalp (a blow dryer can help to move the hair away from the scalp for easier viewing).
• Note the location, size, shape, number, and color of all familiar moles, birthmarks, scars, and blemishes.
• Record any new or unusual changes in the skin -for example, a sore that doesn't heal, or a mole that has grown or changed color.
• If such changes are seen, a physician should be consulted as soon as possible.

Physical Examination

According to the American Cancer Society, individuals who are between 20 and 40 years of age should undergo a complete cancer-focused check-up - with full skin exam - every 3 years; older adults (age 40 and older) should be examined yearly. Routine physical examination by a physician should include a close inspection of the skin. Such inspection is especially important for individuals who previously have been treated for skin cancer.

Medical History

If the physician suspects that a portion of the patient's skin is abnormal, he or she will begin by taking a medical history. The physician will ask about previous cancer(s) and/or diseases, family illnesses, and the history of the skin lesion in question; for example: When did the spot first appear on the skin? Has the spot changed in size, shape, or color? Has it been bleeding or scaling?

Biopsy

Next, the physician will perform a biopsy - the removal of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist (specialist in diseased tissue) or dermatologist (skin specialist). The type of biopsy that is chosen depends upon many factors, such as the type of skin cancer that is suspected, the lesion's location, and its size. Since most biopsies leave a scar, the patient should speak with the physician ahead of time to find out what type of biopsy will be used and the type of scar that it will leave.

All skin biopsies are conducted using a local anesthetic. The anesthetic is applied via an injection, so the patient will feel only a small needle prick and a mild sensation of pressure and/or burning that lasts for less than a minute.

Notes: FCbinderMD

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EditText of this page (last edited August 13, 2010)