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Love the Skin You’re In FULL SKIN EXAMINATIONS SAVE LIVES BY NORA HESTON TARTE
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ne in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime. The good news is, a lot of skin cancers are mild and can be easily treated, especially when caught early. One way to ensure early detection is to schedule a full body skin examination, a non-invasive visual tool used to identify and determine treatment for cancerous or precancerous skin growths. “A full body skin examination is a significant tool performed by [a] board certified dermatologist,” says Dr. Abdallah Khourdaji, a dermatologist and pathologist with Golden State Dermatology. Those who should schedule a full skin examination include anyone with a family history of skin cancer, such as melanoma and basal cell carcinoma; patients with signs of sun damage; patients with
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multiple skin moles or birthmarks; and patients at a higher risk of developing skin cancer, such as those with fair skin, blonde or red hair, and green or blue eyes. “If you notice a spot that is different from others, or that changes, itches, or bleeds, you should make an appointment to see a dermatologist,” Dr. Khourdaji says. During the examination, the dermatologist will inspect the skin for any concerning marks to identify it they are cancerous of precancerous. For many, receiving an examination annually is recommended. Common types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both slowgrowing types of non-melanomas that typically do not spread beyond the skin. Melanomas, on the other hand, are more aggressive forms of cancer
that can be life-threatening and can spread to other parts of the body, but often originate in an existing mole or birthmark. In addition to skin cancer, the skin examination tool serves other purposes, as well. “Some patients with psoriasis or skin eczema may need [a] full body skin exam to determine the extent of skin involvement and to decide on the appropriate treatment,” Dr. Khourdaji says. Dr. Abdallah Khourdaji is a double boarded physician in dermatology and pathology. He has been in private practice in Lodi for 35 years and recently joined Golden State Dermatology Medical Group.
GOLDEN STATE DERMATOLOGY Multiple Locations GoldenStateDermatology.com
