Essential elements of
a comprehensive skin check
1
Risks of skin cancer discussion
Includes but not limited to: age, skin type, sun behaviour, previous skin cancer history and other specific medical conditions
Examples: a 60 year old with fair skin and a long history of sunbaking would have much higher risks than a 20 year old with darker skin who has used sun-screen since childhood.
3
Findings discussion
Full understanding of diagnoses and management plan are essential. Good communication is key in doctors and patients satisfaction.
2
Skin examination
Under good lighting, particularly with a dermatoscope. Dermatoscopes are similar to magnifying glasses with a special lighting setup. Dermatoscopy is essential in the current standard of skin examination.
4
Record keeping & follow-ups
Concerning lesions need to be photographed and stored electronically for future reference. Having a good record of skin lesions can facilitate prompt follow-ups between clinicians and patients.
Who needs Skin Cancer Check?
High risk individuals. If one or more of the followings applied to you, then you might need regular skin checks
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Have fair skin
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Have red/ginger, blonde hairs
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Had many freckles in your teen/early adult years
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Had more than five severe sun burns
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Work out doors for a living
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Had sunbath specifically for tanning
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Used tanning bed / solarium
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Have family member diagnosed with melanoma
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Have personal history of skin cancers
Or simply because you are concerned about new skin lesions. Being anxious about such things is normal and it is justified to seek help from a qualified doctor.
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