Complete Skin Screenings
Have you had your skin checked lately? Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States today, and no one is immune: skin cancer can affect all men and women, regardless of skin color, race, or ethnic background. Early detection is key in treating skin cancers. With early detection, the cure rate for the most common skin cancers is about 95%, according the American Academy of Dermatology. Because early detection is so very critical to minimizing the health risk posed by this disease, California Dermatology Specialists recommends that everyone undergo an annual complete skin screening, conducted by a qualified, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Similar to a regular well-visit with your primary care physician, a complete skin screening involves a thorough visual examination of your skin to look for any questionable lesions or to inspect any areas of concern you might have. The exam is not invasive and does not require any blood work. Our Board Certified Dermatologists will discuss your skin with you, reviewing your family history and medical history and addressing any specific questions you have. We will also encourage you to conduct regular self-screenings, an important part of your overall skin health.
Dr. Eric Meinhardt and the team of dermatologists at California Dermatology Specialists are dedicated to providing a full range of dermatology services to patients located in Brentwood, Los Angeles and Calabasas, California as well as surrounding areas. We know the importance of early detection in skin cancer and strive to keep our patients educated about their options. Please do not think that only fair-skinned individuals are at risk for skin cancer. While individuals who are lightly complected and burn easily do have a greater likelihood of developing pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions, patients of all skin colors can get skin cancer and unfortunately, patients who do not believe they are at risk of developing skin cancer often discover the disease at a much later point in its development, making it more difficult to treat. Dr. Meinhardt and his highly trained staff strive to offer you the most comprehensive treatments available to suit all your skin needs and goals.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are several different types of skin cancer and pre-cancerous lesions that we will look for during your skin screening.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This is the most common form of skin cancer. BBC often appears as raised, smooth, waxy bumps that most commonly appear on areas of your body like your head, neck, or shoulders. A BBC may look like a sore, but it won’t heal and will usually bleed easily.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This is also a common form of skin cancer, appearing as red, scaly patches of skin in areas that receive the most significant amounts of sun exposure. These lesions can also get crusty and bleed.
- Actinic Keratosis (AK): AKs occur when the top layer of your skin is badly damaged due to sun exposure. They are pre-cancerous lesions that cannot always be seen. They may present as a rough patch or growth that is itchy or painful.
- Melanoma: Melanomas can appear as dark brown/ black moles or lesions that can change in color, size, shape, or elevation. Melanomas can be found both in areas with significant sun exposure and in areas that are not traditionally exposed to a lot of sun. This form of skin cancer is very aggressive and can spread quickly throughout your body, so catching and treating it early is extremely important.
Contact California Dermatology Specialists
At California Dermatology Specialists, with offices in Brentwood, Los Angeles, we specialize in offering the very highest level of patient care founded on a philosophy of medical excellence coupled with a dedication to cutting-edge advancements in medical dermatology and aesthetic medicine. Led by our Medical Director, Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Eric Meinhardt, our highly trained and experienced staff of dermatologists, nurses, and licensed aestheticians have made it their goal to provide you with the specialized, customized skin care you require to address your medical and aesthetic concerns at their source. Whether you are seeking medical dermatologic care or cosmetic enhancement services, we will work with you to develop an individually-tailored treatment plan that will optimize your health and well-being and maximize your comfort and safety.
If you are interested in learning more about a complete skin screening at California Dermatology Specialists, or would like additional information about our complete offering of dermatological and aesthetic services, we invite you to contact our office today. We look forward to hearing from you!
