Skin cancer screenings that include a total body skin exam are extremely important, especially if you have a family history of this cancer. It’s important not only for maintaining your health, but catching diseases early. But that first skin cancer screening can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t know what to expect. Preparing can help reduce any anxiety you have about the visit and what comes after. Here’s what you should know about a total body skin exam.
Before the Examination
Make sure your dermatologist is aware of your skin history at the beginning of your appointment. This includes letting them know about biopsies and family history of skin cancer. You may not have to go into detail if you’re seeing your regular dermatologist, but you should if you’re visiting for the first time.
If you have any specific concerns or if you’ve noticed any bumps, discolorations, or growths that you want your dermatologist to examine, bring them up prior to the examination.
Before the examination, you’ll be asked to put on a paper gown. Unless you have specific questions or your doctor says otherwise, you can leave your underwear on for comfort’s sake. It’s likely your dermatologist won’t mind, but some patients may be uncomfortable with such an examination of all their parts.
During the Examination
The exam shouldn’t take long overall, as your dermatologist may use their naked eye and a magnifying tool such as a dermatoscope to examine the surface of your skin. Some dermatologists will start at the neck and work their way down before returning to the face and head. You may have to do some of the exam while standing or while sitting depending on what your dermatologist is currently looking at. He or she may also look inside your mouth and ears to check the skin there.
Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification, or to speak up if you’re uncomfortable for any reason. Your dermatologist will be there to answer questions and to help you feel comfortable during this examination.
Benign Spots
Benign lesions or pre-cancerous spots can be treated with liquid nitrogen. Like with warts, the liquid nitrogen freezes these spots so that they die immediately. This treatment will be done on the spot with a metal can of liquid nitrogen, and may require repetition to ensure all the cells are frozen. You may then develop a blister or other irritation on the spot as the benign lesion flakes away, but this heals in a few weeks.
Suspicious Marks and Biopsies
If your dermatologist has concerns with one spot, they’ll order a biopsy. This can be done on the spot or later depending on your dermatologist. You’ll receive local anesthetics during the biopsy, which is a short procedure.
Two types of biopsies exist: shaves or punches.
- Shave: a small blade shaves off the lesion, and the dermatologist will cover the site with ointment and a bandage.
- Punch: your dermatologist will carefully cut out the area in question. This may require one or two stitches.
Results for biopsies can take up to two or three weeks, and may require a follow-up appointment to discuss the results. Clarify at the beginning with your dermatologist which he or she will call you concerning–whether you’ll receive notice for benign or just for malignant. Depending on what the biopsy reveals, the dermatologist may discuss further treatment with you.
Be sure to get regular skin cancer screenings and checkups with your dermatologist! Keeping an eye on your skin–including self-examinations–can give you a great head start in staying healthy.