After spending the last twenty years struggling with my skin, I decided that it was time to make some powerful changes. For starters, I went in and met with a dermatologist, who was very upfront with me about the nature of my skin. It was really interesting to talk with him about my treatment options, and before I knew it, I was getting treatments to help the problem. Within a few months, my skin looked brand new, and I knew it was all because of the help of my doctor. I wanted to spread the word about the power of dermatology, so check out my blog!
Dermatology isn't just about addressing acute skin issues; it's a field deeply rooted in the science of s
While you may feel like you don't need to visit a dermatologist unless there's something wrong with your
When you go to a hospital for skin cancer screening, expect one of the two tests discussed below. 1. Biop
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Psoriasis is a common skin disease that causes dark, red, dry patches of skin, particularly on the chest,
When you go to a hospital for skin cancer screening, expect one of the two tests discussed below.
1. Biopsy
During a skin biopsy, your dermatologist removes and uses a small sample of your skin for the skin cancer screening test. You get one of three types of biopsy based on the size and location of the abnormal skin area.
Excisional biopsy. The dermatologist uses a scalpel to get the sample skin. Excisional biopsy always applies when your dermatologist suspects that you have melanoma, the most severe type of skin cancer.
Shave biopsy. A razor blade cuts off a small portion of your skin required for the test. The procedure applies when you have rashes limited to your skin's top layer or your provider suspects you have skin cancer.
Punch biopsy. A unique circular tool removes the sample skin from your body. The procedure often diagnoses rashes.
A skin biopsy diagnoses skin cancer during the early stages. If the tests reveal that you have squamous or basal cell cancer, the doctor removes the cancerous lesion immediately or soon after the biopsy. If you have melanoma, you will undergo more tests to determine whether the cancerous cells have spread. After that, your provider determines the ideal skin cancer treatment for you.
2. Imaging Tests
Your health provider uses imaging tests to determine whether cancer has spread or come back after treatment. Imaging tests include:
Computer Tomography (CT) Scan. A CT scan applies X-rays and computers to capture detailed pictures of the inner side of your skin. The photos are taken from divergent angles, and a computer makes 3D images that your doctor analyses.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Magnetism and radio waves create pictures of your inner skin during MRI. Useful for non-melanoma skin cancer screening, MRI shows how cancer has affected nearby structures, e.g., nerves.
X-ray. In most cases, X-rays apply when your provider needs to check whether cancer has spread from the skin to other organs. For instance, if the skin next to your chest is cancerous, your dermatologist may do an X-ray to determine if your lungs are affected.
Imaging procedures are non-invasive and painless. However, you may need a more invasive biopsy if the images reveal metastases or unusual spots.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is among the most common cancer type in the U.S. Frequent skin cancer screening ensures early diagnosis and increases your chances of recovery. Also, if you have a history of prior skin cancer and sunburns, do the tests more often. On a positive note, early diagnosis and treatment improve manageability to help you live a more quality life.
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