Cochise Oncology

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What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening

Today, many patients go for regular skin screenings. Melanomas and other forms of skin cancers are common and can appear at any time. So screenings help doctors diagnose them as early as possible, catching them before they spread to other parts of the body.

But what actually happens during a skin cancer screening? What does it involve?

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer refers to a group of cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, that affect the dermis. Specific types of cells in the skin begin dividing uncontrollably, leading to spots. These can then spread to other parts of the body via the bloodstream.

What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening?

A skin cancer screening at Cochise Oncology is a visual examination of your skin by a doctor, followed up by additional tests. We begin by checking your skin carefully, using their experience and knowledge. We may then follow up with additional tests, such as biopsies if we find anything suspicious.

During a skin cancer screening, our doctors follow the ABCDEs of melanoma. This means that they will look for:

A: Asymmetry of any spots on your skin
B: Borders and whether they are changing, jagged, poorly defined, or scalloped
C: Color changes of suspicious spots on your skin
D: Diameter changes of moles
E: Evolution or whether the spot is changing in size, shape, or color over time

If we find anything that might be cancer, we will recommend that you come for regular monitoring. We may also suggest a treatment plan.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Often Should You Have a Skin Cancer Screening?

Ideally, you should come for skin cancer screenings annually. When you catch melanoma early, your chances of survival are 99 percent. However, as skin cancer progresses and spreads deeper into the skin and other parts of the body, it becomes harder to treat.

Benefits of Annual Skin Cancer Screenings

Coming for regular skin cancer screenings at Cochise Oncology provides a host of benefits.

Screenings provide peace of mind: Being anxious all the time about a spot on your skin can harm your quality of life. It could be nothing to worry about, but when you fear that it’s cancer, you can’t relax. Coming for screenings, therefore, helps to put your mind at ease. We let you know whether the spot or mole is a reason for concern or not.
Screenings let you track changes: With melanoma and other forms of skin cancer, it is critical to track changes in the skin. As melanoma progresses, its visual appearance can change. Benign spots can become dangerous. So monitoring them regularly provides an early warning of potential issues in the future.

Screenings protect high-risk patients: Patients with a history of intense sun exposure, more than 50 moles, blonde or red hair, and a family history of skin cancer are at much higher risk of developing the disease. Thus, regular screenings allow you to pre-empt the disease.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about skin cancer screening? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!

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