As well as a visual inspection of the skin, we use the MoleMax II system to check skin lesions. This routinely gives the doctor a 30 times magnified view of skin lesions which the patient is also able to view on the monitor. Were necessary images can be saved for follow up or future reference.
Should any lesions suspicious for skin cancer be detected options for further management will be discussed.
Whilst most skin cancers occur on sun exposed areas of the body, some especially melanoma (the most serious type of skin cancer) not infrequently occur on areas not exposed to the sun. For this reason a complete examination of the skin from “head to toe” is recommended.
The head and neck areas do receive a lot of sun and need to be checked thoroughly. Skin cancers can occur on the scalp more so in males with the hair thinning or absent, but also in women especially on the crown or part line. The areas around the eyes ears nose and lips are danger areas for skin cancers and are examined closely, to detect early lesions which may be quite indistinct. The mouth or oral cavity is also inspected.
Next the hands and arms are checked, followed by the back of the torso, front of the torso, legs and feet. The soles of the feet palms of the hands and nails are examined (these are the most common sites for melanoma if dark skinned people, but can occur here with any skin type).
Having a skin check can be embarrassing. Patients are only requested to undress to their level of comfort, and if requested a chaperone can be arranged. Generally I don’t ask women to remove their bra; unless they have moles or lesions here they wish to be checked. It is however important that patients check this area themselves especially under breasts. Similarly the genital area is not routinely examined except upon request (and for women this is more conveniently done at the time of you pap smear check). I do recommend checking the buttocks, as this is an area difficult for patients to check themselves and although they may have never been exposed to sunlight many people have moles here and skin cancer is possible in this location. Children under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
