Do You Need a Skin Exam?

Are you wondering if a skin exam is right for you? Maybe you aren’t sure what a skin exam even entails. A full-body skin exam is one of the most frequent things I do in my job. During a skin exam, you undress completely (underwear can stay on if you wish). You change into a gown, and then I check you head to toe looking for anything abnormal such as skin cancer. Routine skin exams are not necessary for everyone. This article covers who is considered a high-risk patient, and if everyone should be getting an annual skin exam or not.

High-risk patients

High-risk patients are those that are considered at a greater risk of developing skin cancer than your average person. If you fall into any of these categories I recommend you at the very least get a baseline skin exam. Your medical provider will then tell you if they recommend you come to see them on an annual basis or not. 

• Caucasian adults aged 50 or older
• If you have greater than 50 moles, especially if they are different sizes, shapes, and colors
• Personal history of skin cancer 
• Chronic immunosuppression such as from a medication due to an organ transplant or a medication used for psoriasis or other rheumatologic disorders.
• Sun-sensitive individuals for example those with light skin, light eyes, and red or blonde hair. 
• Family history of melanoma in a first-degree relative. This includes parents, children, and siblings. Or a strong family history of second-degree relatives all of which are either on your mother’s or father’s side. 
• Strong history of tanning bed use

Why aren’t skin exams for everyone

I will preface this by saying if you have any concerns you should absolutely see your medical provider, even if you don’t fall into one of the above categories. Please find more information about how to detect skin cancer early here. The following reasons are why routine skin exams aren’t recommended for everyone:

• Psychosocial impact of screening, which can include distress over getting undressed or anxiety when waiting for biopsy results
• Unnecessary biopsies. The goal is to always biopsy skin cancer. However, that is not always the case. Benign lesions get biopsied every day.
• Scarring. Unnecessary biopsies can lead to unnecessary scars. 
• Time for both patient and the provider. The patient’s and the provider’s time is valuable. If the likelihood of you developing skin cancer is extremely low, then you do not need a routine skin exam. The provider’s time is also valuable and needs to be spent effectively.
• Expense. Skin exams and biopsies are not free. There are costs to consider.

I hope this provides a clear guideline regarding whether or not you should be having a full-body skin exam every year. Also, just because you don’t fall into one of the high-risk categories does not mean you won’t develop skin cancer. When in doubt ask your primary care provider, they will point you in the right direction. 

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*Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer. Information on this website is for education and entertainment purposes only. Content is my opinion. It is not substituted for your own doctor’s medical care or advice. One should not make any health or medical-related decisions based in whole or in part on any content on this site. Content is not intended to replace the services of a licensed, trained health professional. Content may not apply to you as an individual. Although I will update my website with current information, this website is not a definitive guide to dermatology.