Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer screenings are used to detect melanoma and other types of skin cancer as early as possible.
Dr. Jones trained at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center with world experts in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
She is trained to use a dermatoscope, which is an essential tool in identifying skin cancers.
Who should receive a skin cancer screening?
Patients with a higher risk for skin cancer should receive annual skin exams. These characteristics put patients at higher risk for skin cancer:
Family history of melanoma
Red or blonde hair, light skin, blue or green eye color, freckles
Patients with more than 50 moles
Prior blistering sunburn
Prior tanning bed use, or intense, frequent sun exposure
Immunosuppression
Individuals who have had skin cancer are often screened every 3-6 months.
I have no high risk criteria. Should I still have a screening?
If you notice an irregular spot or mole on your skin, you should schedule a skin cancer screening. Check out our skin cancer* page for more information on the signs of skin cancer.
How is a skin cancer screening conducted?
Prior to the exam, you will be asked to remove your clothing, socks, and watch. You may keep undergarments on, but it is best to wear loose fitting clothing. Tight bras and underwear make the examination more difficult. It is also best to wear little to no facial makeup. You will be provided with a flat sheet, worn like a blanket, to cover yourself.
During the exam, your doctor will use a dermatoscope to look closely at your skin and all of your spots. A dermatoscope uses polarized light to help the doctor distinguish benign from cancerous spots. It is helpful to point out any palpable bumps on your scalp. While we will not regularly examine the genitalia, please make sure to bring up any bumps or spots you may have noticed.
At the end of the examination, your doctor will point out any concerns and discuss whether any spots may require biopsy or removal.