In a new study from Northwestern University, researchers suggest when people found suspicious skin lesions, they should ask their dermatologists for a full-body skin check. This could save a life.
They found dermatologists are twice as likely to find skin cancer with a full-body check. More than half of the skin cancers discovered were not in the location the patient was concerned about.
If the dermatologist did not check their entire body, these skin cancers would be missed.
In the study, the team reviewed the medical records of more than 1,000 patients.
The skin cancers discovered during full-body skin exams included basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas and life-threatening melanomas.
The findings show the importance of a complete skin exam, also called a full-body skin exam, for finding skin cancer.
The team says the bottom line is everyone with a risk of skin cancer or a suspicious skin lesion should have a complete skin exam because this is the best way to find skin cancers. This practice can save many lives.
Anyone at risk for skin cancer due to fair skin, a history of sun exposure or other risk factors should have routine full-body skin exams.
Dermatologists need to take the opportunity to look over the patient’s entire body, even when the appointment is just for a suspicious lesion. And patients need to request one in case the doctor doesn’t suggest it.
Skin cancers, the most common cancers in the United States, can be treated successfully if found early. About 5 million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer each year.
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The study is published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. One author of the study is Dr. Murad Alam.
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