Dr. Berlin is a strong believer in the early diagnosis and prevention of skin cancer. For that reason, he recommends that everyone be screened for skin cancer at least once by a dermatologist.
Most patients will then require a yearly complete body skin examination, though the frequency may be higher in patients with a personal or family history of skin cancer or those with specific risk factors.
Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer screening is an important part of general dermatologic care. A complete skin examination allows for early detection of abnormal or suspicious lesions.
Early diagnosis plays a key role in successful treatment, particularly for skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Risk Factors and Screening Frequency
While many patients benefit from annual skin examinations, some individuals may require more frequent monitoring.
Higher-risk patients include those with a personal or family history of skin cancer, significant sun exposure, or other predisposing factors. Screening recommendations are tailored based on individual risk.
Actinic Keratoses and Pre-Cancerous Lesions
Actinic keratoses are pre-cancerous lesions that develop due to sun damage. Many, although not all, squamous cell carcinomas arise from these lesions.
A variety of treatment options are available, including photodynamic therapy (PDT), which is designed to treat these areas before they progress to skin cancer.
Melanoma and Moles
Malignant melanoma may arise within a pre-existing mole (nevus) or develop on previously normal skin.
Evaluation of moles is an important part of skin examinations. Specific criteria are used to help distinguish benign moles from those that may require further evaluation or treatment.
Ongoing Skin Health
Regular dermatologic care focuses not only on diagnosis and treatment, but also on prevention.
Routine skin examinations, awareness of changes in the skin, and early evaluation of suspicious lesions all contribute to maintaining long-term skin health.
We also provide detailed educational resources to help patients better understand their skin health—visit our Patient Education page to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have a skin cancer screening?
Most patients benefit from a yearly skin examination, though some may require more frequent visits depending on their risk factors.
What are actinic keratoses?
Actinic keratoses are pre-cancerous skin lesions caused by sun damage that may progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Can melanoma develop in a normal area of skin?
Yes. Melanoma can arise in an existing mole or develop on previously unaffected skin.
What should I look for in a mole?
Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as bleeding or itching should prompt evaluation by a dermatologist.
Are skin cancer screenings covered by insurance?
Coverage varies depending on the insurance plan. It is best to check with your provider regarding specific benefits.
Regular skin examinations are an important part of early detection and prevention of skin cancer. Schedule a visit to have your skin evaluated and discuss any concerns.