Health journalSkin health
Skin checks in Rutherford: what to expect
Australia has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Here is how a skin check works at our Rutherford clinic, and the ABCDE signs to watch for.
Australia has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and Cancer Council Australia estimates that about 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. With long, sunny summers in the Hunter Valley, regular skin checks are an important part of looking after your health. This guide explains what happens at a skin check at Rutherford Doctors, the signs to watch for, and how to book a skin cancer check near Maitland.
What is a skin check?
A skin check is an examination of your skin by a GP to look for spots, moles or lesions that may need closer attention. Our GPs with an interest in skin cancer medicine use a dermatoscope, a hand-held magnifying light that helps them see the structure and colour of a spot more clearly than the naked eye.
What happens during your skin check appointment
- A conversation about your history, including sunburn, previous skin cancers and family history
- A head-to-toe examination of your skin, or a check of a specific spot that concerns you
- A close look at any spots of concern using dermoscopy
- A discussion about what was found and any next steps
You can ask for a chaperone at any time, and you are always in control of what is examined. If you have a particular spot you are worried about, mention it when you book.
The ABCDE signs of skin cancer
The ABCDE guide is a simple way to remember what to look for when you check your own skin:
- Asymmetry: one half of the spot looks different to the other
- Border: the edge is uneven, notched, scalloped or blurred
- Colour: several colours, such as brown, black, red, blue or white
- Diameter: larger than about 6mm, or getting bigger
- Evolving: changing in size, shape or colour, or starting to itch, bleed or crust
Not every skin cancer follows these signs. Some, such as nodular melanoma, can be raised, firm and grow quickly. If a spot is new, changing, or looks different to your other spots, book a skin check rather than waiting.
Common types of skin cancer
- Basal cell carcinoma, the most common type, which often appears as a pearly or shiny lump or a scaly patch
- Squamous cell carcinoma, which may be a thickened, red, scaly spot that can bleed
- Melanoma, the most serious type, which can appear as a new spot or a changing mole
Who might consider regular skin checks?
- People with fair skin that burns easily
- People with a history of sunburn, especially in childhood
- People with lots of moles, or moles that look unusual
- People who have had skin cancer before, or have a close relative who has had melanoma
- People who work or spend a lot of time outdoors in the Hunter sun
Your GP can talk with you about how often skin checks are right for you.
What happens if a spot needs attention?
Some spots can simply be monitored, sometimes with photos so changes can be compared over time. Others may be treated in clinic, for example with freezing or a minor excision, and a sample sent to pathology for testing. Your GP will explain your options and any costs, such as consumables, before going ahead.
Checking your own skin between visits
Get to know your skin. Check it every few months in good light, using a mirror or asking someone to help with your back and scalp. Look for anything new or changing using the ABCDE guide.
Book a skin check in Rutherford
Rutherford Doctors is a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice, and skin check consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients. Book online through HotDoc at any hour, or call (02) 4061 7981. We welcome patients from Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Telarah and the wider Maitland area.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a skin check take?
A full skin check usually takes longer than a standard consultation. Ask for a longer appointment when you book.
Is a skin check bulk billed?
Skin check consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients with a valid Medicare card. Some procedures may attract a fee for consumables, and reception will tell you first.
How often should I have a skin check?
It depends on your risk. Your GP can advise how often is right for you.
Should I remove nail polish or make-up?
It helps to remove nail polish and make-up so your GP can check your nails and face properly.
4Cyte Pathology collection is in the same building at Rutherford Doctors, so blood tests can often be collected straight after your appointment.
Sources: Cancer Council Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia.
This article is general health information written by the Rutherford Doctors team. It has not been written or reviewed by our GPs and is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
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