Skin cancer prevention: early detection is vital

The number of new cases of skin cancer is growing alarmingly: 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 each year in Germany alone. If this happens at an early stage, the chances of cure for all types of skin cancer are high. 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 pigmentary changes. However, they can turn into malignant tumors over time. This is why it is so important to examine one’s own skin repeatedly by oneself in good light conditions. If pigment moles show asymmetrical shapes, irregular borders, uneven coloring, rapid changes or a size of more than five millimeters, an appointment with a dermatologist should definitely be made.

Screening at the dermatologist

For reliable early detection, the skin is not only examined with the naked eye at the dermatology clinic at Sendlinger Tor, but also with digital reflected-light dermatoscopy and video documentation (FotoFinder). This modern technology makes it possible to digitally record pigment moles, magnify them over 80 times and examine them with the aid of a computer. Even the smallest changes in the skin can be detected in this way and closely monitored over the years.

Interesting facts about preventive care

Appointments for skin cancer screening can be conveniently booked online at Dermatologie am Sendlinger Tor. Patients with health insurance also have the option of taking advantage of the comprehensive screening as self-pay patients. On the day of the examination, nail polish and earrings or piercings should be removed and makeup should be avoided. It usually does not take long for all pigment moles to be recorded and examined. Depending on the skin and risk type, the next check-up appointment is then scheduled.

If you have already noticed skin changes, please contact us immediately. In our practice, we have all the facilities for reliable diagnosis, surgical treatment and efficient aftercare.

VALUABLE INFORMATION