When it comes to skin cancer – early detection is critical
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, but the good news is that it is also one of the most treatable cancers. Because the skin is visible, we have the chance to see skin cancers early. The difficulty is recognising them for what they are. Regular skin checks using advanced dermoscopy techniques play an essential role in early detection and prompt treatment.
Detect skin cancer at an early stage
Detecting early stage skin cancer allows for more effective interventions and can quite literally save lives. With comprehensive skin checks and state-of-the-art skin cancer detection technology available on the Sunshine Coast, our community has the ability to prevent and reduce the harms caused by skin cancer and enjoy the peace of mind they deserve.
Why you shouldn’t self-diagnose skin cancer
Although self skin examination is extremely important in detecting obvious and quick growing skin cancers, it’s not possible for the untrained eye to recognise the more subtle or early changes that many cancers present with. Scopes are needed to see patterns in moles and detect skin cancer early. Additionally, it’s not easy to check certain areas of your own body such as your scalp or the back of your knees or neck. The average person does not know what to look for in a melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma on their own skin.
The power of a dermatoscope
Contrary to what some may think, dermatoscopes are far more than just expensive magnifying glasses. These remarkable devices consist of a handle, a magnifying lens, and special cross-polarised light. Their ability to see through the outer, reflective layer of the skin allows a skin cancer doctor to delve into the upper layers of the skin and unlock information that is invisible to the naked eye.
When using a dermatoscope to examine skin spots and perform skin exams, a skilled skin cancer doctor GP can identify distinct patterns and colours that provide valuable clues about different types of lesions, including skin cancers. The use of cross polarised light in modern dermatoscopes
has revolutionised skin checks in the last 10-20 years. New understanding of the patterns of skin cancer allows well trained skin cancer doctors to perform a much more accurate and comprehensive examination.
Dermoscopy has emerged as a critical technique in the early detection of skin cancer. By using a dermatoscope, doctors can identify unique structures and characteristics that are indicative of malignant or premalignant skin lesions. These patterns include asymmetric structures, irregular distribution of colours, and the presence of specific vessels. By thoroughly examining these features, doctors can determine whether a biopsy is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and initiate timely treatment.
Another great advantage of dermatoscopes is their speed and efficiency. Clinicians can swiftly move from one spot to another during a single skin check, carefully scrutinising each area. This thorough examination allows a better understanding and ability to diagnose skin cancer, ultimately reducing the need for unnecessary biopsies while improving overall accuracy.
Did you know that about 80% of skin cancers in Australia are dealt with in primary care by GPs? A GP with advanced training and experience is now commonly called a Skin Cancer Doctor, or Skin Cancer GP. Those who only practice skin cancer care will diagnose and manage more skin cancers than most dermatologists and are increasingly seen as specialists in primary skin cancer care.
Best Treated Early
As a skin cancer doctor with over eight years of experience, our own Dr Simon regularly emphasises the importance of early detection to patients. The ability of a dermatoscope to see what patients cannot see themselves is invaluable in identifying growing or changing spots that may be indicative of skin cancer. By utilising advanced dermatoscopy techniques, we can detect skin cancer at its earliest stage when it is most treatable and has the highest chance of a successful outcome.
Caring for your skin health goes beyond just detecting skin cancer. That’s why at Sunlife, our providers take a holistic approach to your skin health. In addition to dermatoscopy, a wide range of services are offered, including educational resources on sun protection, personalised risk assessments, and treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Don’t wait to take charge of your skin health. New patient bookings are now available. Contact us today to schedule your thorough skin check and ensure peace of mind when it comes to the early detection of skin cancer.