How Is Skin Cancer Screening Performed and What Are the Risks?
Skin cancer screening is typically performed by a dermatologist or a trained healthcare provider who will examine your skin from head to toe. The provider will look for any suspicious moles, growths, or changes in existing skin lesions, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven colors, or changes in size. The skin exam includes less common areas, such as the scalp, between the toes, under the nails, and the genital area. If any areas are concerning, a biopsy may be performed, where a small sample of tissue is taken from the suspicious area and sent to a lab for further examination. The entire process is generally quick and non-invasive, with little to no discomfort involved.
There are minimal risks associated with the screening process itself. However, the risk comes with the potential for false positives or false negatives. A false positive occurs when the screening detects an abnormality that is not cancerous, leading to unnecessary biopsies or treatments. Conversely, a false negative occurs when the screening misses an early sign of cancer, delaying treatment. While these risks exist, they are relatively rare, and the benefits of regular screenings far outweigh the potential drawbacks, especially in high-risk individuals. Regular screenings are an important preventive measure that can lead to early intervention, improving the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
