How to Learn About the Skin Cancer Diagnosis Process

As with most types of cancers, the skin cancer diagnosis process is focused on early detection, which can determine the success of the treatment. It is important to check yourself for unusual moles, lesions or irregular patches of skin, or to have someone else such as a doctor assist you with the areas of your body you cannot see. Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinomas, the three basic types of skin cancer, are among the most treatable of all cancers, but early diagnosis is crucial.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Oncologist or dermatologist

Understand the Objective of the Diagnosis Process

1. Learn that the first objective of the skin cancer diagnosis process is to determine whether the cancerous cells are 'in situ,' or localized, or spreading to other parts of the body.

2. Increase your chances of survival by obtaining a diagnosis as soon as possible. If the skin cancer has spread to the lymph nodes near the affected area, the 5-year survival rate is only 60 percent, and if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate is only 14 percent, according to the American Cancer Society.

Get Involved With the Diagnosis Process

3. Give your oncologist or dermatologist as much information as possible about your family history and other experiences with cancer you may have had. Talk about your risk factors, such as exposure to the sun.

4. Allow a complete examination of all suspicious moles, lesions and skin irregularities, in addition to any enlarged lymph nodes.

5. Get a biopsy, which involves removing tissue from the suspicious area, and sending the sample to the lab for testing.

6. Insist upon a follow-up consultation as soon as the lab results are finished, so can you can learn which treatment plan will be most effective.

Tips & Warnings

• Second opinions are recommended if you have a suspicious mole. Some forms of skin cancer, such as melanoma, can be particularly difficult to detect in early stages.
• Remember your right to determine what kind of treatment options and plans you want when diagnosed with skin cancer, as determined by the Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.
• Use sunscreen even on cloudy days to help prevent skin cancer. Ultraviolet rays can damage your skin eeven through cloud cover.
• A diagnosis of skin cancer can be emotionally stressful to most people. Ask your doctor about counseling or medication that can help you cope with having skin cancer.

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