Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Each year, millions of people receive a skin cancer diagnosis, and one in five Americans will develop the disease by age 70. Because skin cancer often appears on visible areas of the body, dermatologists are central in identifying changes early. Regular exams give patients a clear picture of their skin health and help track new or changing spots over time. Here’s information on the benefits of dermatology exams in skin cancer detection:
How Dermatologists Detect Skin Cancer
A skin cancer exam is a straightforward, in-office visit. During the dermatology appointment, a specialist examines your skin from head to toe, checking for moles, growths, and areas that differ in:
- Color
- Size
- Texture
They may use a dermatoscope, a handheld device with magnification and light, to view the surface and structure of a spot in greater detail. Your dermatologist may ask about your family history, sun exposure habits, and any changes you have noticed. This information helps them decide which areas need closer attention during your exam.
How Dermatologists Diagnose Skin Cancer
If a dermatologist finds a suspicious spot, the next step is often a biopsy. During this procedure, they remove a small sample of tissue and send it to a laboratory. A pathologist examines the sample under a microscope, and the results determine whether the cells are cancerous. This process helps confirm the type of skin cancer and guides the next steps in someone’s care. You should contact a dermatologist if you notice a new growth, a sore that does not heal, or a mole that changes in shape or color. People with a personal or family history of skin cancer may benefit from more frequent exams.
How Specialists Treat Skin Cancers
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. For certain cases, specialists may recommend Mohs surgery, a technique that removes cancerous tissue layer by layer to preserve as much healthy skin as possible. Another common approach is surgical removal, in which a specialist excises the tumor and a margin of surrounding tissue. Other methods include cryotherapy, which freezes the affected cells, and topical medications applied directly to the skin.
Your dermatologist will review the options that fit your specific diagnosis, as not every skin growth is cancer. A benign tumor stays in one place and does not spread to other tissues, while a malignant tumor can grow into nearby areas. Dermatologists distinguish between the two through examination and biopsy results, helping you determine what next treatment steps you may need.
Schedule a Dermatology Exam
Routine skin exams promote the early detection of skin conditions like skin cancer. Early detection often depends on noticing small changes, and a trained specialist can spot details that you may overlook. Scheduling regular visits keeps a medical record of your skin health and makes it easier to compare new spots against previous exams. If you haven’t had a skin exam recently, or if you’ve noticed change, contact a dermatology practitioner for a consultation. A specialist can answer your questions, examine areas of concern, and help you create a plan suited to your needs.
