The best screening test is an extensive examination of the skin. Part of a yearly physical should include a thorough examination of the skin including the mouth, behind the ears, around the nose, the scalp, the penis, the areas around the vagina and rectum, the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. Lymph nodes should also be examined.
Everyone should be examined this way, especially fair-skinned, blond-haired, blue-eyed individuals and people who have had previous skin cancers. Special attention should be given to areas where a previous skin cancer was removed. These people should also examine themselves often to assess any change or development of new lesions to bring to the attention of a physician. If a skin lesion changes in any way, a dermatologist should be consulted.
