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A More Precise Skin Cancer Screening

Posted on October 24, 2016

A small investment of your time can help save your life!

Living in Florida, we all know the importance of sun safety and skin cancer screenings. Every hour a person dies of melanoma, and this year alone, over 76,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed. On average skin cancer screenings take about 10 minutes, which could potentially save your life.

Along with the unfortunate diagnosis of melanoma, there are many other concerns and cancers that can be detected in your dermatologist’s office with a thorough, proper, skin cancer screening. It is recommended that you have a screening at least once a year. And, because some forms of skin cancer grow very rapidly, if you notice any new lesions, bumps, or moles that are of concern, you should schedule a dermatology appointment immediately.

The Woodruff Institute for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery goes one step further during your skin cancer screening. Their providers use a dermatoscope, which is a handheld magnification device that allows them to see skin lesions in greater detail, helping them to decipher whether or not your mole or lesion is concerning. Under the dermatoscope a mole that may have appeared normal to the naked eye, may show signs of abnormality, like having an irregular pattern. On the contrary, a mole that may have appeared to be irregular to the naked eye may show to be completely normal under the scope and alleviate the need for an unnecessary biopsy.

The signs of melanoma to look for in moles or lesions are outlined in this simple acronym, ABCDE:

A—Asymmetry
B—Border Irregularity
C—Color-Variegated
D—Diameter (>6 mm)
E—Evolving

The Woodruff Institute for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery’s highly regarded dermatologists, not only use the in-depth dermatoscope screening on all of their patients, but they also teach their patients the importance of doing at home self skin examinations. Our dermatologists will show you what to look for, what’s normal, and when to get a professional exam.

Our approach to skin cancer is proactive, preventive and prescriptive. With office locations in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero and the Fort Myers area, the Woodruff Institute for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery continuously educates the local community to avoid sun exposure and to always use effective sun protection. The best way to identify potential skin cancer is through annual full-body skin examinations with qualified medical professionals. Because it’s nearly impossible to look at your own skin in its entirety, and unfortunately skin cancers can hide from sight or be mistaken for harmless skin growths, it’s essential to see a dermatologist regularly.

Because early detection is the key to successful treatment, The Woodruff Institute emphasizes the importance of regular screenings, knowing that proactive prevention and early detection continue to be the smartest strategies.

About The Woodruff Institute for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery
Since 2004, The Woodruff Institute for Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery has offered Southwest Florida patients the region’s highest quality, state-of-the-art facial aesthetic surgery, dermatology, and reconstructive surgery. Dedicated to providing personalized, quality care in an elegant environment, The Woodruff Institute looks forward to caring for your dermatologic and aesthetic concerns.