Skin Cancer: A Self Examination

• Posted on: May 15 2018
• By: The ENT and Allergy Centers of Texas

Melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer that is on the rise among U.S. adults. Fortunately, there is a 99% survival rate when this type of skin cancer is discovered in the early stages. One of the best methods to apprehending this type of cancer is to conduct a skin cancer self-exam. Monthly self examinations can help you identify skin irregularities so you can notify your doctor and receive treatment if necessary. Ultimately, regular self examinations could be protecting your life. let’s discuss the specifics of what you should be looking for and how to do a self exam.

What to look for

If you have a spot or marking that is new or has an altered feel, color, size, or shape, notify your doctor. Also watch out for any sore, blemish or lump. If you have an area on the skin that feels crusty, oozing, itching, tender, painful, or bleeding, take note. Normal moles are even in color and are tan, brown or black. They can be oval, flat, round, or raised. An irregular mole has an abnormal shape, may have a jagged border, and is multi colored (a mixture of red, white, blue, or shades of brown).

How to do an exam

Conduct a skin cancer self examination at least once a month. An easy way to remember is to do it right before or after a shower.

1. Step 1: Remove your clothes and face a full length mirror. Begin by checking your shoulders, chest, arms, and under your arms. Look around the thighs and calves as well.
2. Step 2: Look at the front and back sides of your arms and your palms.
3. Step 3: Using a hand mirror, check the backs of your legs and thighs and under your feet.
4. Step 4: Check your neck by using a hand mirror. Examine your scalp and behind each ear.
5. Step 5: Lastly, using the mirror examine your buttocks, lower back, and genitalia.

Schedule an appointment

If you are concerned about an abnormal mole or blemish you discovered during a self examination, contact the ENT & Allergy Centers of Texas. You can reach our office by calling 972.984.1050.

Posted in: Skin Cancer