Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer continues to claim thousands of lives each year, but regular screenings can help reduce that number. At Colorado Skin Care in Englewood, Colorado, board-certified dermatologist Kimberly Stone, MD, Amy Huber, PA-C, and the team perform comprehensive skin cancer screenings to ensure you receive high-quality care as early as possible. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is a skin cancer screening?

A skin cancer screening is a head-to-toe exam that checks for abnormal skin growths, moles, and lesions. During a screening, the Colorado Skin Care team examines your skin's surface to detect early signs of skin cancer when they are more easily treatable. 

Regular screenings are crucial for early detection and can be a proactive measure in preventing skin cancer progression.

Which types of cancer can a skin cancer screening detect?

Skin cancer screenings typically check for signs of the three most common types of skin cancer:

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing type of skin cancer that often appears as a flesh-colored or pearly bump, frequently on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, or chest.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Rapid growth of squamous cells in the skin's outer layer can manifest as a red, scaly patch or a firm, raised nodule. It commonly arises in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, and hands.

Melanoma

Melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, originates in the pigment-producing cells and can rapidly spread. It often presents as an asymmetrical, irregularly bordered, multicolored mole or lesion, emphasizing the importance of early detection through regular skin cancer screenings.

I scheduled a skin cancer screening. What can I expect?

A skin cancer screening can take as little as 15-30 minutes and typically includes:

Medical history review

Your dermatologist discusses your medical history, including any past incidents of skin cancer, family history, and your personal concerns or observations about your skin.

Examination

Next, they conduct a thorough exam of your skin, assessing moles, birthmarks, and any other spots. This exam may involve looking at areas not typically exposed to the sun.

Dermatoscopy

A tool called a dermatoscope can help closely examine certain spots that might not be visible to the naked eye.

Findings discussion 

If your provider identifies any suspicious lesions, they may recommend a biopsy for a more accurate analysis.

Educational information

Your dermatologist may provide educational information on skin cancer prevention, the importance of sun protection, and how to perform self-checks between screenings.

Follow-up recommendations

Depending on the findings, the provider may recommend periodic follow-up screenings, monitoring specific spots, or further diagnostic procedures if needed.

Call Colorado Skin Care today or schedule an appointment online to book a skin cancer screening with a board-certified dermatologist.