Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world. In fact, over 3.5 million cases are diagnosed each year in the United States alone.
If you’ve scheduled a same-day skin cancer checkup in Falls Church here’s what to expect at your visit.
Why Are Skin Checks so Important?
There are three main types of skin cancer: squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and melanoma. The most deadly is melanoma.
Regular checks can help identify suspicious lesions early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. The sooner you get a diagnosis, the better your outcome is likely to be.
Here’s What to Expect at a Same-Day Skin Cancer Check Up in Falls Church
Preparation for Your Visit
Before you come, be sure to remove any makeup, nail polish, or anything else on your hair, skin, or nails. Consider noting any changes or concerns you have about your skin, including new moles, spots, or areas of irritation, to discuss with your healthcare provider during the appointment.
The Examination
During a skin cancer check, your skincare specialist will conduct a thorough exam of your skin, including areas not typically exposed to the sun. For example, the scalp, between fingers and toes, and under nails.
They will carefully inspect moles, freckles, and other skin lesions for signs of skin cancer, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, changes in color or size, spots that are large in diameter, and anything that has evolved in appearance. These signs are known as the ABCDEs of melanoma.
Your provider will use a dermatoscope, which is a handheld device to examine skin lesions in greater detail. This tool allows them to better see suspicious features that may indicate skin cancer. Dermoscopy enhances the accuracy of the exam and reduces the need for unnecessary biopsies.
If your provider identifies a suspicious lesion, they may recommend a biopsy for further evaluation. There are different types of biopsies. They are done to collect a small tissue sample. They are typically quick and may be performed under local anesthesia right then.
The collected sample is sent to a diagnostic lab for analysis to determine whether the lesion is cancerous and, if so, what type of skin cancer it is.
Additional testing may be ordered in some cases, which may include ultrasound or other imaging such as a CT scan to determine the extent of the cancer. Blood tests are likely to be ordered too.
Treatment Planning
If diagnosed with skin cancer, your specialist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your type of cancer and other unique needs.
Treatment options may include Mohs surgery, which has a very high success rate of up to 99%, topical medications, radiation therapy, and/or systemic therapies such as immunotherapy or chemotherapy, depending on your diagnosis.
Regular follow-up visits are essential after treatment to monitor for recurrence or new skin cancer. Your provider will schedule routine skin checks to examine your skin for any changes and address any concerns you may have.
Attend these appointments as scheduled to ensure ongoing skin health and early detection of any potential issues.
Understanding what to expect during a same-day skin cancer check-up in Falls Church is important. Also, knowing when to seek evaluation is necessary to take proactive steps toward early detection, treatment, and prevention of skin cancer.
For Compassionate Skin Cancer Care From the Area’s Top Specialist, Turn to Dr. Marjan Yousefi
Schedule your skin check today at our office in nearby Vienna to prioritize your health and well-being! Contact us today at 703-255-5070.
