Screening in Glasgow

Name: Skin Cancer Screening
Brand: Elanic Medical
Rating: 4.6 (9 reviews)

While skin cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer in the UK, it is highly treatable when detected early. Our dedicated team at Elanic Medical provides rapid, accurate skin cancer screening in Glasgow using best-in-class technology.

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer is caused by the proliferation of abnormal cells in the epidermis. Unrepaired cellular damage leads to mutations that eventually form tumours. There are three main types of skin cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, appearing as raised bumps or sores on the face, neck, or shoulders.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Squamous Cell Carcinoma appears as discoloured, crusty skin patches in regions of the body most prone to excess sun exposure.

Melanoma: Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer that can spread quickly and should be treated by experts as soon as possible. It appears as dark lesions that may change in shape, size, or colour.

What is skin cancer screening?

Elanic Medical is dedicated to achieving the earliest and most precise skin cancer detection possible. We encourage regular skin cancer testing for all patients, especially those at higher risk of developing the disease. Patients prone to skin cancer have:

Fair or lighter skin
An array of moles or abnormal lesions
A personal or family history of skin cancer
A history of severe sunburns
An abnormal amount of exposure to harmful UV rays or tanning lamps

Types of Skin Cancer Screening

Visual Skin Exam

A visual skin exam is the most common type of skin cancer screening. During this exam, a healthcare professional examines the skin for any signs of abnormal growth or changes. The healthcare professional will examine the entire body, including areas that are not exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, between the toes, and under the nails.

Dermoscopy

Dermoscopy utilises a special instrument called a dermatoscope, an instrument that magnifies the skin, allowing the healthcare professional to see the skin's structure and patterns. This method is particularly useful in identifying early-stage skin cancers, as it can detect changes in the structure of the skin that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Total Body Photography

Total body photography involves taking photographs of the entire body to document any changes in the skin over time. This method is particularly useful for people who are at high risk of developing skin cancer, such as those with a family history of skin cancer or those with a large number of moles.

What happens during skin cancer testing?

When you visit Elanic Medical for skin cancer testing in Glasgow, you will receive thorough full-body scanning that typically takes around 10-15 minutes to complete. Your provider may use a handheld dermatoscope with a light source to magnify areas of concern in the skin’s deeper layers. If questionable tissue is discovered, it will be biopsied and sent to the lab for analysis. The findings will then be investigated by your provider and you will be informed of your results. If you require treatment, our team will discuss the next steps with you, creating a customised solution tailored to your needs.

Examining yourself at home for skin cancer

Using a full-length mirror, examine yourself from front to back and from side to side, raising your arms. It is important to look in the body’s creases, such as those in the elbows, between the toes, or behind your knees. Use a second mirror to see any areas not readily visible, such as the back of the neck or the buttocks. Keep an eye out for hard growths that may feel tender to the touch, as well as translucent growths with indents in the centre. Any growth that bleeds easily or refuses to heal is also suspect. A good system to go by when assessing lesions and growths is ABCDE:

A – Asymmetry – The growth has asymmetrical sides.
B – Border –The growth has an irregular outer border.
C – Colour – The colour of the growth is irregular or mottled.
D – Diameter – The growth has a diameter that exceeds 6mm.
E – Evolving – The growth has changed over time.

Tips for avoiding harmful UV rays

Avoiding harmful exposure to the sun’s damaging rays is an important step in the fight against skin cancer. Here are some helpful guidelines:

Stay in the shade between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun is at its peak. This will help to avoid UVB rays. (UVA rays are constant from sunrise to sundown.)
Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunblock with an SPF of 30+ and reapply it every two hours.
Make sure to protect vulnerable areas like the scalp, eyes, face, and shoulders by wearing hats and sunglasses and using sun umbrellas.
Refrain from using tanning beds.

Get started with your private, in-depth consultation today

If you are concerned about skin growths or lesions or you are simply due for a skin cancer screening, contact Elanic Medical today to schedule an appointment. Our goal is to provide total peace of mind for patients, and that begins with thorough full-body skin cancer testing in Glasgow. We are excited to meet with you, answer your questions, and provide outstanding concierge care at our world-class facility in Glasgow. Call today to get started!

Skin Cancer Screening FAQ

What is skin cancer screening?

How often should I get a skin cancer screening?

What are the signs of skin cancer to look for?

Is skin cancer screening painful?

What happens if skin cancer is detected during screening?

What is skin cancer screening?

Skin cancer screening is a medical examination where a dermatologist checks the skin for unusual moles, spots, or growths that could indicate skin cancer. Early detection of skin cancer is crucial for effective treatment, and a screening can identify potential concerns before they become serious.

How often should I get a skin cancer screening?

It is recommended to have a skin cancer screening at least once a year, especially for individuals with risk factors such as a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, or frequent sun exposure. However, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings depending on your personal risk profile.

What are the signs of skin cancer to look for?

Common signs of skin cancer include changes in the size, shape, or color of moles, the appearance of new growths, or any sores that do not heal. Skin cancer may also present as an itchy, bleeding, or crusted area on the skin. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to seek a professional evaluation.

Is skin cancer screening painful?

No, skin cancer screening is a non-invasive and pain-free process. During the examination, your dermatologist will carefully inspect your skin, and if necessary, may take a biopsy of suspicious areas for further testing. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort.

What happens if skin cancer is detected during screening?

If skin cancer is detected during a screening, your dermatologist will discuss treatment options with you. This may involve removing the suspicious mole or growth, followed by a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Depending on the type and stage of skin cancer, further treatments like surgery, radiation, or topical therapy may be recommended.

Explore Our Other Cosmetic Procedures

In addition to comprehensive skin cancer screening services, Elanic Medical provides a variety of dermatology and aesthetic treatments to help you maintain healthy, radiant skin. Whether you're interested in preventative care, skin rejuvenation, or advanced treatments for skin conditions, our dedicated team offers personalized solutions tailored to your needs.