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If a laboratory test reveals that an area of the
skin is cancerous, the dermatologist has an array of procedures to choose from, dependent
on the needs of the individual patient. In the treatment of any of the skin cancers,
including melanoma, early detection and removal is the best defense. Dermatologists
recommend that the best way to guard against melanoma/skin cancer is to do a monthly
self-examination. Get familiar with your skin and your pattern of moles, freckles
and "beauty marks". Be alert to changes in the number, size, and shape and
color of pigmented areas. If any changes are noticed call your dermatologist.
Monthly
Self-Exam
Prevention of melanoma/skin cancer is obviously the most desirable
weapon against this disease. But if a lesion should develop. It is almost
always totally curable if caught in the early stages. To ensure that any developing
lesion is caught in the early stage, a regular program of self-examination should be
followed. The following is a suggested method of self-examination that will ensure
that no area of your body is neglected in a regular program of self-examination.
To perform your examination you will need a full-length mirror, a hand
mirror, and a brightly lit room where you can study your skin in privacy. This
step-by-step method, if done monthly, will provide you with an "early warning
system" against melanoma/skin cancer.
- Examine your body front and back in the mirror, then right and left
sides,
arms raised.
- Bend elbows and look carefully at forearms and under arms and palms.
- Next, look at the backs of the legs and feet - spaces between toes and
soles.
- Examine back of neck and scalp with the help of a hand mirror, part hair
(or use hair dryer) to lift and give you a close look.
- Finally check back and buttocks with hand-mirror.
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