All Services
A head-to-toe skin exam checking for cancer or other harmful skin conditions.
What is it?
A skin and mole assessment is a medical evaluation conducted by a dermatologist to evaluate your skin's health and detect any irregularities, including suspicious moles or lesions that may indicate skin cancer or other dermatological issues.
We strongly suggest annual comprehensive skin examinations as part of a proactive approach to skin health maintenance. This recommendation is particularly important for individuals with a higher risk of skin cancer, such as those with numerous moles, irregular or atypical moles, a family history of skin cancer, prolonged sun exposure without proper protection, or a compromised immune system.
During the assessment, we focus on identifying the three most prevalent types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are categorized as "keratinocyte carcinomas," non-melanoma skin cancers that develop in keratinocytes, the predominant type of skin cells in the epidermis, or the outermost layer of the skin.
Melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer, originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. Although less common than basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is more dangerous because it can metastasize to other organs if not diagnosed and treated promptly. However, early detection and treatment of melanoma typically result in a favorable prognosis.
If you have not undergone an annual skin examination or if you notice any unusual changes on your skin, such as new or evolving skin lesions, discomfort, or non-healing wounds, please contact our practice. With our team of experienced and board-certified dermatologists, we are well-equipped to provide expert care and treatment.
What to expect
During your appointment, we'll conduct a thorough examination from head to toe, including an assessment of your scalp and the spaces between your fingers and toes. We'll also address any areas of concern you may have and examine them closely.
We're specifically looking for any areas, moles, patches, or lesions that appear different or abnormal, such as those with irregular borders, multiple colors, or a diameter exceeding six millimeters (approximately one-quarter of an inch). If we identify any suspicious areas, we may utilize a magnifying device to examine them more closely.
Should we encounter a concerning area, we may recommend a biopsy, which involves obtaining a small skin sample for testing. This procedure typically takes only a few minutes, and the biopsy site typically heals within one to two weeks. We'll send the biopsy to our laboratory for analysis and inform you of when to expect the results, understanding that waiting for results can be an anxious time. Rest assured, we'll strive to provide you with the results as promptly as possible.
If skin cancer is diagnosed, we'll arrange for further treatment, which may include surgical removal of the affected area.
If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact our Clarkston Dermatology office, and we'll schedule an appointment for you with one of our board-certified dermatologists at our Clarkston or Oxford, Michigan locations. We're here to support you every step of the way.
A full body skin exam is one of the most important steps you can take to detect skin cancer early. When detected early, skin cancer has a very high cure rate without invasive treatment. A skin exam involves a thorough head-to-toe exam of your skin, including the scalp, mouth, hands, feet, eyelids, toenails, and extremities. Your dermatologist will check for signs of melanoma and look at unusual spots on your skin with a dermatoscope.
If a suspicious spot is found, your dermatologist will likely biopsy it by numbing the area and shaving a sample of the tissue for analysis or performing a punch biopsy. Results will generally be available in about one week. Unusual spots that do not require removal or biopsy may also be photographed so your dermatologist can check for any changes at your next skin exam.
A full body exam usually takes just 20 minutes and should be done once a year. During your appointment, your dermatologist will review your medical history and risk factors for skin cancer.
If areas that need treatment are identified, they can sometimes be taken care of during the same appointment with a skin biopsy or cryotherapy.
The cost of a full body skin exam at Clarkston Dermatology depends on your health insurance coverage and other factors. We encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment to learn more about what you should expect during a body exam and your individual cost.
Ahead of your full body exam, we recommend skipping any makeup or skin care products that mask the skin or make it harder for your dermatologist to see your natural skin. It can also be helpful to note any areas of concern or spots that you find suspicious so they can be addressed. Let your doctor know if there are any growths or moles that are new, bleed, itch, or have changed over time.
Don't be afraid to mention any spots or areas that bother you such as skin tags. While your dermatologist will be focused on identifying potentially cancerous spots, you can discuss issues like skin tags and potential treatment options.