One of dermatology’s primary concerns is skin cancer awareness. Rewind Advanced Aesthetics, Dermatology, Concierge Medicine, and Trichology by Formula Health in Lexington, Kentucky, tries to make all patients aware of the hazards of skin cancer. With over 5 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is a serious concern. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends annual skin cancer screenings.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, yet it is also one of the most preventable and treatable when detected early. Regular skin cancer screenings are a proactive way to catch potential problems before they escalate. These screenings are essential for identifying unusual moles, growths, or changes in your skin that could signal the onset of skin cancer. At Rewind Advanced Aesthetics, Dermatology, Concierge Medicine, and Trichology by Formula Health in Lexington, Kentucky, we offer comprehensive skin cancer screenings to ensure early detection, timely diagnosis, and effective treatment options. By being vigilant about skin health, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with skin cancer.

What is Skin Cancer Screening?

Skin cancer screening is a process of examining the skin to detect signs of cancer before symptoms appear. This proactive approach aims to identify potential skin cancer at an early stage when it is easier to treat. A skin cancer screening typically involves a visual examination of the entire skin surface, looking for any suspicious moles, growths, or changes that could indicate the presence of skin cancer.

The Importance of Skin Cancer Screenings and Early Detection

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, and its rates continue to rise globally. By detecting skin cancer in its initial stages, patients have a better chance of avoiding more severe complications. Here’s why early detection of skin cancer is vital:

• Improved treatment outcomes: When found early, skin cancers are more likely to be treated successfully.
• Higher survival rates: The average 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 91.5%, but this varies significantly based on the stage of the disease, ranging from 98.4% for stage IA to 17.9% for stage IV.
  Less invasive treatment options: Early detection often allows for simpler and less aggressive treatment methods.

To enhance early detection, patients at Rewind Advanced Aesthetics, Dermatology, Concierge Medicine, and Trichology are encouraged to perform regular skin self-exams and report any unusual changes to their dermatology specialist.

The ABCDE Rule for Skin Cancer

One of the most effective ways to detect early signs of skin cancer is by using the ABCDE Rule. This simple guideline helps you identify suspicious moles or skin spots that may require further examination by a dermatology provider. Here’s what each letter stands for:

• A – Asymmetry: If one half of the mole doesn’t match the other, it could be a warning sign of skin cancer.
• B – Border: Watch out for moles with irregular, notched, or scalloped edges, as these could indicate the presence of skin cancer.
• C – Color: If a mole shows multiple colors—such as different shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue—it may be a sign of melanoma.
• D – Diameter: While not all large moles are cancerous, it’s important to pay attention to moles that are larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• E – Evolving: Any change in a mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation—or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting—could be a sign of skin cancer.

If you notice any moles or spots on your skin that match these criteria, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist or dermatology provider at Rewind Advanced Aesthetics, Dermatology, Concierge Medicine, and Trichology for a thorough skin cancer check.

What To Expect for Your Full-Body Skin Exam

At Rewind Advanced Aesthetics, Dermatology, Concierge Medicine, and Trichology by Formula Health, the skin cancer screening process typically involves several steps, each designed to thoroughly examine the skin for any signs of cancer. This comprehensive approach helps in early detection and improved treatment outcomes.

Visual Examination

The first step in skin cancer screening is a visual examination. During this process, a healthcare provider carefully inspects the entire skin surface, looking for any suspicious moles, growths, or changes. The visual screening usually takes about 10 minutes, or longer if the doctor identifies any unusual moles. Patients are asked to remove all clothing and wear a medical exam gown. The doctor then examines every inch of the body, from visible areas like the face and arms to less obvious places such as the scalp and between the toes.

Dermoscopy

Dermoscopy, also known as dermatoscopy or epiluminescence microscopy, is a non-invasive technique that enhances the visual examination. This method uses a handheld microscope and incident light to reveal subsurface images of the skin at increased magnification.

Dermoscopy has proven to be a valuable tool in improving the accuracy of skin cancer detection. Studies have shown that it can enhance the assessment of clinically suspicious lesions compared to naked eye examinations.

Skin Biopsy Procedures

If you have any suspicious-looking spots on your skin, your dermatologist or dermatology provider will do a skin biopsy with a local incision. The specimen will be sent to the lab for a pathologist to examine under a microscope, checking for cancer cells to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

There are several types of skin biopsies:

• Punch biopsy: A special tool with a hollow, round blade is used to remove a small piece of skin about the size of a pencil eraser.
• Shave biopsy: A razor or scalpel is used to remove a sample from the top layer of skin. This is often used for suspected basal cell or squamous cell skin cancers.
• Excisional biopsy: The entire skin lesion is removed, typically with some surrounding normal skin. This is typically used when melanoma is suspected.

A full-body screening is a vital preventive measure in the fight against skin cancer. By identifying moderate to high-risk features early on, such as atypical moles, individuals can take proactive steps, potentially reducing their risk of developing skin cancer or ensuring it is caught at a more treatable stage.

For additional information, please book a free consultation with a provider online or call Rewind Aesthetics, Concierge Medicine, Dermatology, and Trichology by Formula Health in Lexington, Kentucky, at (859) 800-4771.

Citations for Patients:
– American Cancer Society. (2023). “Key Statistics for Melanoma Skin Cancer”.
– Skin Cancer Foundation. (2022). “Understanding a Skin Cancer Diagnosis”.