FULL-BODY SKIN CANCER TREATMENTS & SKIN EXAMINATIONS IN FREMONT
Regular skin exams, treatments for skin cancer, and cancer screenings are among the top requested services here at MOD Dermatology. The American Academy of Dermatology has determined that one out of every five Americans will face skin cancer at some point in their lives, making it clear that anyone, regardless of skin tone, can be affected by this condition. It's crucial to have frequent skin checks as one gets older to improve the likelihood of early detection of skin cancer. Should there be a history of skin cancer in your family or concerns about melanoma, our Fremont specialists are ready to provide personalized screenings and skin cancer treatment options.
At MOD Dermatology, our providers specialize in conducting full-body skin exams to identify atypical moles, pre-cancers, and cancerous spots, including basal cell or squamous cell skin cancer and melanoma. These exams are crucial for individuals with a history of these conditions, as they are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer.
WHO SHOULD SCHEDULE A FULL-BODY SKIN EXAMINATION?
Anyone can get skin cancer, but some factors make certain people more likely to have it. If you fit into any of the following groups, you should schedule a full-body skin exam at our offices in Fremont due to the increased risk:
- People who have had precancerous areas, actinic keratosis, squamous cell carcinoma, or basal cell carcinoma
- People who have had melanoma before
- People whose family members have had melanoma
- People with atypical nevi or unusual "moles"
- People who often use tanning beds or tan outside
- People who have had multiple sunburns
- People with frequent sun exposure or who work outdoors
- People who are interested in a baseline skin examination to learn about what to look for on their skin
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A SKIN EXAM
A full-body skin cancer screening might seem intimidating, especially if you're unsure about what happens during the process. To alleviate any discomfort, a gown is provided, ensuring you remain covered in a respectful manner throughout the exam. Skin cancer has the potential to develop anywhere on your body, making it vital to undergo a comprehensive screening. Though the aim is to examine your entire skin for signs of skin cancer, the amount you choose to undress depends on your comfort level. This approach allows for a thorough check while respecting your personal comfort boundaries, ensuring a respectful and effective screening experience.
During a skin examination, our Fremont dermatologists will closely inspect moles and lesions using a dermatoscope, a tool that combines features of both a flashlight and a microscope. If any spots or moles look unusual, the decision will be made on whether they should be monitored or removed. Skin growth biopsy samples might be taken and tested to see if they are cancerous. The procedures that we use at our Fremont clinic for melanoma and biopsies are made to ensure patients feel at ease throughout the process.
How to do a self-skin exam
Although a dermatologist-provided skin exam is generally only needed on an annual basis, it's important to conduct self-skin exams every month. This frequent practice will help you monitor any changes in moles, allowing for the early detection of any worrisome areas.
Here’s how to perform a skin exam on yourself:
Move to a brightly lit area and face a mirror. Use a hand-held mirror to view hard-to-see spots such as the back of your neck, legs, and torso. A close friend or family member can assist in checking areas that are difficult to view, such as your scalp.
Observe the shape, size, and color of any freckles, moles, or other spots. Remembering these details or taking pictures will make it easier to notice changes during future exams.
Start your exam by inspecting your face, neck, ears, stomach, and chest. Continue by examining your underarms, both sides of your arms, the palms and tops of your hands, under your fingernails, and between your fingers. Don’t forget to check beneath breasts and within skin folds.
While seated, examine your legs from the thighs to the shins including the tops of your feet, between toes, and under toenails. Use a hand-held mirror to check the soles of your feet, calves, and behind your thighs.
Stand up again to use the hand-held mirror for viewing your buttocks, genital area, lower back, the back of your neck, and upper back using a larger wall mirror for an easier exam.
Conclude by combing through your scalp in sections to ensure no area is missed. This systematic approach helps in thoroughly examining every part of your body for any unusual moles or spots.
What should I look for during a self-skin exam?
When you perform a self-skin exam, here are some things to look for and remember:
1. Take note of new or changing moles, spots, or growths in size, shape, or color.
2. A sore that bleeds and doesn't heal over weeks needs attention.
3. Scaly, rough patches that get crusty or bleed should be watched.
4. Be aware of any wart-like growths.
5. Moles that are asymmetrical, have uneven borders, show different colors, are larger than a pencil eraser, or have changed in size, shape, or color are concerning. Remember these signs with "ABCDE," which stands for asymmetry, border, color, diameter (size), and evolving.
WHY CHOOSE MOD DERMATOLOGY FREMONT FOR YOUR SKIN CANCER TREATMENT?
Our board-certified dermatologists specialize in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment and are backed by rigorous training. We leverage advanced tools like dermoscopes and digital photography to ensure precise care. Flexible scheduling accommodates our patients' busy lives, ensuring access to necessary treatments. The cornerstone of our approach is patient-centered care, fostering a supportive environment that addresses individual needs and concerns.
SKIN CANCER TREATMENTS AND FULL-BODY SKIN EXAMINATIONS IN FREMONT
To make sure your skin remains healthy, particularly if you're worried about moles or melanomas, it's crucial to have an annual skin cancer screening. Our board-certified dermatologists are ready to assist with any concerns. For a comprehensive skin examination at our Fremont clinic, please contact us at 402-505-8777.