Skin Self-Examination: How can I do?
GOOD HABITS
by Manuel Calixto, Dermatologist in Lifeclinic®
What is self skin exam?
It is a simple method to detect early skin cancer, including melanoma. If diagnosed and treated when the tumor has not deeply invaded the skin, skin cancer can be cured.
When to do?
When looking at your skin regularly (2 to 2 months) gets to know the normal appearance of their signals or stains. It is useful to note the dates and appearance of skin in each test, or even take notes about their appearance. If you have taken photos, you can compare them to help detect changes.
What to look for?
- Pruritic (itchy), scaly or bleeding spot
- Signals that change size, shape or color
- Wounds that do not heal in 4 weeks
Keep in mind the A-B-C-D transformation of a signal in melanoma, as described below:
- Asymmetry: one half different from the other
- Ragged edges: boundary ill-defined
- Color variable: various colors in the same lesion (black, brown, white, red or blue)
- Diameter: greater than 6 mm
- Evolution: a sign that the plan becomes large or thick
How?
1) In front of a mirror with arms raised, examining the body front, back and right and left sides;
2) Bend elbows and look carefully at his hands, forearms, arms and underarms;
3) Examine the parts of the front, rear and sides of the legs beyond the genital region;
4) Sat, closely examine the plant and the balls of the feet and between your fingers;
5) With the aid of a hand mirror and a brush or dryer, examine the scalp, neck and ears;
6) Finally, even with the aid of hand mirror, examine the back and buttocks.
Attention
In case of doubt or if you find any difference or change, seek medical advice immediately.
Come make your self-examination followed free at Lifeclinic® between 15 and September 30. |