It is important to have regular skin exams from a Board Certified Dermatologist in order to catch skin cancer early. At DeLuke Dermatology, our dermatologist will do a thorough skin screening from your head to your toes to evaluate for any suspicious moles or skin growths. Melanoma can be found anywhere on the body, including areas of the skin typically covered by clothes. If you have many moles or have a family history of melanoma, you are at a greater risk for developing melanoma and should have routine skin exams.
Contact us today to schedule your skin check at our convenient WNY location, right in Amherst off the 290 Main St exit!
Frequently asked questions
Why does melanoma sometimes occur in places typically covered by clothes?
Good question! There has been much research by dermatologists on this question and the current thought is that melanoma found on the head and neck is typically caused by the sun exposure (even when it is cloudy in Buffalo it is important to wear sunscreen). Melanomas in covered areas are likely more genetic, like when someone has a family history of melanoma. So while it’s extremely important to wear sunscreen to prevent certain types of melanomas, other types are more likely due to other factors like genetics.
What should make me concerned when looking at my moles?
Dermatologists agree that you should look for the ABCDEs!
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Color variation
- Diameter greater than a pencil eraser
- EVOLUTION- this is the most important! A changing mole should be evaluated urgently.