Skin cancer screening
Skin cancer screening is designed to detect early signs of skin cancer before they become more advanced or difficult to treat. At Birmingham Skin Clinic, Dr Michelle Thomson provides expert assessment of moles, lesions and sun damaged areas to identify concerns at an early and highly treatable stage.
Screening is recommended if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, significant sun exposure, a high number of moles, or any lesion that has changed in appearance. Careful examination and dermatoscopic assessment are used to evaluate the skin and identify lesions that may require biopsy or treatment.
Conditions assessed during skin cancer screening
During screening, Dr Thomson will assess for several types of skin cancer. Early identification improves outcomes and may reduce the need for more invasive treatment.
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It may appear as a shiny bump, persistent red patch or a sore that does not heal. Although it rarely spreads, it can cause deeper tissue damage if untreated. Early diagnosis allows straightforward and highly effective treatment.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma can develop on sun exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears and hands. It may present as a scaly patch, firm lump or non healing ulcer. Early detection is important because this cancer can spread if not treated promptly.
Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen’s disease)
Bowen’s disease is an early form of squamous cell carcinoma that remains on the surface of the skin. It usually appears as a slowly enlarging scaly patch. Screening helps identify lesions suitable for topical therapy, cryotherapy or surgical treatment before they progress.
Keratoacanthoma
Keratoacanthoma is a rapidly growing skin lesion that resembles squamous cell carcinoma. It often forms a dome shaped lump with a central keratin plug. Because it is difficult to distinguish from true skin cancer, assessment and treatment are usually recommended.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new lesion. Warning signs include asymmetry, colour variation, irregular borders or rapid change. Screening enables early identification so that suspicious moles can be removed and analysed quickly.
What screening involves
Skin cancer screening includes a detailed medical history, a focused or full skin examination and dermatoscopic assessment of moles or lesions. If any lesion appears suspicious, Dr Thomson may recommend biopsy, surgical removal or close monitoring.
Who should consider screening
- New or changing moles
- Significant sun exposure or past sunburns
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
- Multiple or atypical moles
- Previous or current sun damaged skin
To arrange a skin cancer screening appointment with Dr Michelle Thomson, please contact the clinic through the contact page.