The process of diagnosing skin cancer always begins with a visual exam. It is essential to spot skin cancer in its beginning stages when it is easier to treat. Most skin cancers diagnosed early have a five-year survival rate of 99% or higher, including melanoma, a terminal disease.
Getting an early diagnosis needs you to see your doctor regularly & schedule an appointment whenever you notice an unusual spot. If your physician thinks the lesion looks suspicious, specific tests and procedures may be done to see if it is cancerous.
The Test Used by Doctors to Make a Skin Cancer Diagnosis
Skin cancer specialists in Toowoomba usually perform a visual examination to check for skin cancer. Then, they will assess the size, colour, shape, and texture of the spots. You may also be asked about any new symptoms and your family history of skin cancer.
If you see your primary care physician, you might be referred to a dermatologist specialising in skin diseases. They use special tools to examine a spot closely. This process is called a dermoscopy.
Biopsies
If a lesion looks suspicious, your doctor will perform a biopsy to remove a tissue sample and test it for cancer. A biopsy leaves a small scar, depending on the size of the lesion and the method used. Once a biopsy is performed, samples are sent to a lab for a pathologist to analyse under a microscope.
Imaging tests
Imaging tests are sometimes used if doctors suspect skin cancer has spread to other areas of the body, which include:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
- A chest X-ray
- Computerised tomography (CT) scan
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
Signs to look for
Be on the lookout for any new and unusual spots on the skin. Regular self-examinations help you spot new growths or changes on the skin. Doctors often recommend following these steps once a month.
It is best to examine your skin in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror.
Be sure to notice all areas of your skin, including your palms, soles, ears, scalp, nails, and back. Consider asking a family member or a friend to help you if you cannot see these spots.
Also, look for any new lesions that have changed in size, shape, colour, or texture. Any sore, lump, or blemish that looks unusual may also be a warning sign.
Why is an Early Diagnosis Important?
Early diagnosis of all types of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, can significantly improve your chances of being cured.
Also, catching skin cancer early on can make treatments more manageable. Since smaller, simpler lesions are easier to remove surgically, scarring or disfigurement is less likely to result. It is a must to pay attention to new or changing skin spots and consult a doctor if you notice anything unusual.
At Drayton Medical Centre, our mission is to provide the ultimate medical care to patients. So, if you are worried about that new development on your skin and want to have it checked, be sure to contact us.