Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer occurs in one out of every five people in the United States. Skin cancer screening detects it during the early stages when it’s easier to treat. At Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street in Washington, DC, Sarika Snell, MD, FAAD, and the team are skin cancer specialists. They provide skin cancer screening to help you stay healthy. Call the office or schedule your skin cancer screening online today.

What is skin cancer screening?

Skin cancer screening is a professional skin exam that involves a thorough evaluation of your skin from head-to-toe. Skin cancer is common and difficult to detect if you’re not sure what to look for.

The Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street team can find and treat all types of skin cancer. They provide skin cancer screenings so you can get the care and monitoring you need to stay healthy.

When do I need skin cancer screening?

There’s no right or wrong time for a skin cancer screening. However, you should have regular skin cancer screenings if you have skin cancer risk factors such as:

• Light colored skin or eyes
• History of sunburns
• Regular exposure to the sun from work or activities
• Family history of skin cancer
• Personal history of skin cancer
• Many moles
• Skin that burns easily

The team at Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street recommends scheduling a screening if you notice any new or abnormal skin growths. Changes in the shape or color of an existing mole or the growth of a new mole is a serious concern. 

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that grows in the pigment-producing cells that make moles. It is the deadliest type of skin cancer because it grows and spreads quickly.

What happens during skin cancer screening?

After you change into the exam gown, your dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street takes a close look at your skin. They start at your scalp, slowly moving down your body until they reach the bottom of your feet.

Your dermatologist keeps notes during your exam, marking moles and other skin growths. They also teach you how to perform a self-skin exam at home. Checking your skin once a month makes you familiar with the normal growths on your skin so it’s easier to find abnormalities. 

What happens after skin cancer screening?

The team reviews the findings from your skin cancer screening. If they identified any abnormal growths, they may recommend removing it right away so they can send it to the lab for testing.

They also discuss how to protect your skin and reduce your risk of skin cancer.

To book your skin cancer screening, call Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street or schedule an appointment online today.