Do Dermatologists Do Full-Body Skin Checks?
Dermatologists routinely perform comprehensive full-body skin checks. Their primary role involves the examination and diagnosis of various skin conditions, with a significant focus on identifying and managing skin cancers. These examinations are a standard part of dermatological practice, designed to assess the overall health of a patient’s skin.
Why Skin Checks Matter
Full-body skin checks aid early detection of skin cancers, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma, while less common, is concerning due to its potential to spread rapidly if not identified early. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more prevalent but can still cause local tissue damage if left untreated.
Early identification of these cancers, or even precancerous lesions like actinic keratoses, can significantly improve treatment outcomes. When skin cancer is caught in its earliest stages, treatment is often simpler and more effective, frequently involving surgical removal with a high cure rate. Delaying detection allows these lesions to grow larger, potentially requiring more extensive and complex treatments. Regular professional examinations help in monitoring existing moles and spotting new, suspicious growths that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What Happens During a Skin Check
During a full-body skin check, patients are typically asked to undress down to their undergarments. The dermatologist will systematically inspect the skin from head to toe, including areas often overlooked by individuals, such such as the scalp, behind the ears, between the toes, the soles of the feet, and even the nails. This comprehensive approach ensures that all accessible skin is evaluated for any abnormalities.
The dermatologist assesses moles, freckles, and other skin lesions for characteristics associated with skin cancer, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, varied color, and a diameter larger than 6 millimeters. For any suspicious spots, a dermatoscope, a handheld device that provides magnified and illuminated views of skin lesions, may be used. This tool allows for a more detailed examination of the underlying structures and pigment patterns within a lesion, aiding in differentiation between benign and malignant growths. Patients are also encouraged to point out any specific moles or spots that concern them for the dermatologist.
Who Should Get Skin Checks and How Often
Individuals with certain risk factors need regular skin checks. These factors include a personal history of skin cancer, a family history of melanoma, many moles (over 50), or the presence of atypical moles. People with fair skin, a history of severe or blistering sunburns, or significant sun exposure are also at increased risk.
Skin check frequency varies by individual risk. For those with a higher risk, annual checks are often recommended, while lower-risk individuals might receive checks every two to three years. Your dermatologist will provide a personalized recommendation based on your specific health history and skin type. Performing regular self-skin exams at home, typically monthly, can complement professional checks by helping identify any new or changing spots between appointments.