A skin cancer screening is one of the simplest, highest-value visits in dermatology, a thorough visual exam that can catch a dangerous lesion while it’s still easily treatable. At Skin Care & Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills, our Board-Certified, Cosmetic Fellowship-Trained Dermatologists, including a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, perform detailed skin exams designed to catch what a mirror check at home would miss.
What We’re Looking For
A screening exam is built around identifying the several forms skin cancer can take, including:
- Actinic keratosis, a precancerous, sun-damage-related lesion
- Basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer
- Squamous cell carcinoma, which can spread if left untreated
- Melanoma, the most dangerous form, evaluated using the ABCDE warning signs
Many of these lesions look unremarkable to the untrained eye, which is exactly why professional screening catches cases that self-exams miss.
What to Expect at a Screening
A screening visit typically includes:
- A full-body visual examination, including areas patients often overlook, such as the scalp, back, and between the toes
- Dermoscopic evaluation of any lesion of concern
- Biopsy of any lesion that can’t be confidently diagnosed on exam alone
- A personalized recommendation for how often you should be screened going forward
Who Needs Regular Screening?
Fair skin, a history of blistering sunburns, extensive sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, and a personal history of prior skin cancer all raise your risk and argue for more frequent screening. Most adults benefit from an annual exam, though our physicians may recommend more frequent visits based on your specific risk factors.
Are You a Candidate?
Every adult benefits from periodic skin cancer screening, particularly those with significant sun exposure history or a family history of skin cancer. Catching a lesion early is the single biggest factor in how straightforward treatment ends up being. Schedule a consultation at our Beverly Hills practice to get on a screening schedule that fits your risk profile.
