The average cost for a full-body skin exam, also known as a skin cancer screening visit, was found to be $150 in a multi-year study published in 2018.
Understanding the Cost of a Full-Body Skin Exam
A full-body skin exam is a crucial screening tool for detecting skin cancer early. While costs can vary based on location, insurance, and specific clinic policies, the referenced study provides a clear average for what you might expect. This average of $150 reflects a typical out-of-pocket expense for a comprehensive screening visit aimed at identifying potential skin abnormalities. For more information on skin cancer screening costs and detection methods, you can refer to resources like GoodRx.
What to Expect During a Full-Body Skin Exam
During a full-body skin exam, a dermatologist thoroughly checks your skin from head to toe for any suspicious moles, lesions, or growths. The process typically includes:
- Visual Inspection: The dermatologist will meticulously examine your skin, including areas often exposed to the sun and those less visible, such as the scalp, between toes, and even genitalia.
- Lesion Assessment: They will pay close attention to any unusual lesions, moles that have changed in size, shape, or color, or those that are new.
- Dermatoscope Use: To get a more detailed look at specific spots, your dermatologist may use a handheld magnifying device called a dermatoscope. This tool helps them examine the structure and patterns within a lesion, aiding in the determination of whether it's benign or potentially cancerous.
- Biopsy Determination: If any suspicious lesions are found, the dermatologist will determine if a biopsy is necessary. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the tissue for laboratory analysis to confirm a diagnosis.
This comprehensive approach helps in the early detection of skin cancers, including melanoma, which significantly improves treatment outcomes.