Skin Cancer Screening
What Is It?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer overall. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are highly curable. Melanoma is less common but far more dangerous.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Full-body skin exam. Dermoscopy of suspicious lesions. ABCDE criteria for melanoma (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution). Punch or shave biopsy for histopathology.
How Is It Treated?
BCC and SCC: surgical excision, Mohs surgery, topical therapies (imiquimod, 5-FU) for superficial lesions. Melanoma: wide local excision with sentinel node biopsy; systemic therapy for metastatic disease.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
Skin biopsy and histopathology (essential for diagnosis). Sentinel lymph node biopsy for invasive melanoma. CT/PET for staging.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. Skin biopsy: $100-$300. Mohs surgery: $1,000-$3,000. Melanoma staging: varies. Dermatology referral for suspicious lesions.