The number of new cases of skin cancer is growing alarmingly and steadily: according to the German Cancer Society, around 22,000 malignant melanomas and around 170,000 light skin cancers such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are now diagnosed every year in Germany alone. If this happens at an early stage, the chances of recovery are still high for all types of skin cancer. For this reason, patients with statutory health insurance have been entitled to regular preventive examinations by a dermatologist since 2008.
Self-examination
Normally, moles or liver spots are harmless pigment changes. However, they can mutate into malignant tumors over time. This is why it is so important to regularly examine your own skin under good lighting conditions. If pigmented moles show asymmetrical shapes, irregular boundaries, uneven coloration, rapid changes or a size of more than five millimeters, an appointment with a dermatologist should be made urgently.
Screening at the dermatologist
For reliable early detection, the skin at the dermatology department at Sendlinger Tor is not only examined with the naked eye, digital reflected-light dermatoscopy and video documentation (FotoFinder) are also used. This modern technology makes it possible to digitally record pigmentation marks, magnify them over 80 times and examine them with computer support. Even the smallest change in the skin can be detected in this way and precisely observed over the years.
Things to know about prevention
Appointments for skin cancer screening can be conveniently arranged online at Dermatologie am Sendlinger Tor. Patients with health insurance can of course also take advantage of the comprehensive screening as a self-payer. Nail polish, earrings and piercings should be removed on the day of the examination and make-up should be avoided. It does not usually take long to record and examine all pigment marks. Depending on the skin and risk type, the next check-up appointment is then scheduled.
If you have already discovered skin changes, please contact us immediately. In our specialist practice, we have all the facilities for reliable diagnosis, surgical treatment and efficient aftercare.
Read more at:
Classical dermatology
Skin cancer prevention
