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SCREENING SKIN CANCER WITH DIGITAL DERMOSCOPY - WHY IT’S NOT JUST A SUMMER THING
DR. ANDRÉ LAUREANO MD, Dermatologist, with specialization and developed investigation in the area of Dermoscopy and Preventative Cutaneous Oncology HPA Private Health Group
When we speak about skin cancer, we have to move past thinking only of sunburn. True, intense exposure to the summer sun is a huge risk for melanoma, but we mustn’t forget that there is also a risk for those who, perhaps because of work, spend their days outside. This kind of continuous, cumulative UV exposure often goes unchecked – and can lead to non-melanoma cancers. Either way, there are exacerbating factors to consider too. In general, those of us with lighter-skin tones, fair hair, freckles and blue eyes are naturally more vulnerable to the sun’s rays, while a combination of constant exposure alongside secondary sunburn increases the risks exponentially.
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Despite the occurrence of melanoma increasing with age, it is still common among the under 40s. Interestingly, amongst these younger cases, it is most often found in places such as the trunk or limbs, whereas for the over 60s, the face, neck, ears or scalp are most likely to be affected. Obviously, the cumulative exposure that causes non-melanoma cancers means that the risk increases with age and will usually be found on the face, neck and hands. Any lesion, particularly in these areas, that keeps growing or bleeding, will not heal and feels rough to touch should be examined immediately.
Completely non-invasive, computerized digital dermoscopy consists of indirect observation of cutaneous lesions with an adapted, high-resolution video camera. The construction of total body maps means that mapped lesions can be compared over time, with any changes or new lesions quickly detected. This is hugely important, as advanced melanomas have a very low survival rate – and detecting them as early as possible should be the objective of any dermatologist. After all – the sooner skin cancer is detected, the sooner treatment can begin.
