What is it?

A skin and mole assessment is a medical evaluation conducted by a dermatologist to evaluate your skin's health and detect any irregularities, including suspicious moles or lesions that may indicate skin cancer or other dermatological issues.

We strongly suggest annual comprehensive skin examinations as part of a proactive approach to skin health maintenance. This recommendation is particularly important for individuals with a higher risk of skin cancer, such as those with numerous moles, irregular or atypical moles, a family history of skin cancer, prolonged sun exposure without proper protection, or a compromised immune system.

During the assessment, we focus on identifying the three most prevalent types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are categorized as "keratinocyte carcinomas," non-melanoma skin cancers that develop in keratinocytes, the predominant type of skin cells in the epidermis, or the outermost layer of the skin.

Melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer, originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. Although less common than basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is more dangerous because it can metastasize to other organs if not diagnosed and treated promptly. However, early detection and treatment of melanoma typically result in a favorable prognosis.

If you have not undergone an annual skin examination or if you notice any unusual changes on your skin, such as new or evolving skin lesions, discomfort, or non-healing wounds, please contact our practice. With our team of experienced and board-certified dermatologists, we are well-equipped to provide expert care and treatment.

What to expect

During your appointment, we'll conduct a thorough examination from head to toe, including an assessment of your scalp and the spaces between your fingers and toes. We'll also address any areas of concern you may have and examine them closely.

We're specifically looking for any areas, moles, patches, or lesions that appear different or abnormal, such as those with irregular borders, multiple colors, or a diameter exceeding six millimeters (approximately one-quarter of an inch). If we identify any suspicious areas, we may utilize a magnifying device to examine them more closely.

Should we encounter a concerning area, we may recommend a biopsy, which involves obtaining a small skin sample for testing. This procedure typically takes only a few minutes, and the biopsy site typically heals within one to two weeks. We'll send the biopsy to our laboratory for analysis and inform you of when to expect the results, understanding that waiting for results can be an anxious time. Rest assured, we'll strive to provide you with the results as promptly as possible.

If skin cancer is diagnosed, we'll arrange for further treatment, which may include surgical removal of the affected area. 

If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact our Clarkston Dermatology office, and we'll schedule an appointment for you with one of our board-certified dermatologists at our Clarkston or Oxford, Michigan locations. We're here to support you every step of the way.