Skin Cancer Screening

What is a skin exam for cancer?

A skin exam is one of the services Dr. Gettler offers at Advanced Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology. During a skin exam, Dr. Gettler performs a full-body skin examination for those at risk for skin cancer.

Skin cancer is very common. Finding abnormal growths early may improve your chances of a full recovery. During a skin exam, Dr. Gettler looks for all types of skin cancers, including:

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma may appear as a new changing growth usually seen on areas of prior sunburn like the nose, face, or other parts of the body. It is usually a white or shiny growth on the face or a red scaly growth on the face or body.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a new changing growth usually seen on areas of chronic sun damage and is usually a red, scaly, growing, or changing skin lesion that may bleed or be painful or grow rapidly.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and can appear as a black, growing, or changing skin growth appearing in an existing mole or on normal skin of the face or body. It is usually seen in areas of previous sunburns including the back, legs, and shoulders.

Who needs a skin cancer exam?

Anyone with skin cancer risk factors needs a skin exam from Dr. Gettler. Skin cancer risk factors include:

• Family history of skin cancer
• Personal history of skin cancer or actinic keratosis
• Fair skin
• Blonde or red hair
• Light-colored eyes
• Skin that sunburns easily
• Several moles
• Spending a lot of time out in the sun

You may also be at risk of skin cancer if you have a history of bad sunburns. 

What happens during a skin exam?

Dr. Gettler performs skin exams for all of his patients. During your skin exam, he looks at all of your skin, from head to toe.

Dr. Gettler starts the examination by asking you questions about your skin and any areas of concern. He also reviews your medical and family history. 

For the skin exam, Dr. Gettler starts at the scalp and works his way down, making notes as he goes, writing down areas where you have moles, freckles, and other benign skin growths. If he finds any abnormal growths, he takes a biopsy and sends the tissue sample to the lab for testing.

After your skin exam, Dr. Gettler talks to you about his findings and the steps you can take to keep your skin healthy. He also teaches you how to conduct a skin exam at home. 

Monthly skin exams give you an opportunity to become familiar with your skin, helping you find abnormalities quickly. 

Call Advanced Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology or schedule your skin exam online today.