Skin cancer screening is a medical skin exam to find suspicious moles or lesions early. At Greenblatt Henry A MD | Horizon Family Medical Group | Dermatology in Newburgh, we perform focused skin exams that use careful visual inspection and dermoscopy when needed, and we recommend biopsy or removal when a lesion cannot be confidently identified as benign.
What is a skin cancer screening
A skin cancer screening is a systematic check of your skin from head to toe to identify growths that could be melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma. The exam includes a history, a full skin inspection on the exam table, and close evaluation of any spot that looks unusual.
How we evaluate lesions
- Visual inspection with good lighting to note size, color, shape, and symmetry.
- Dermoscopy when a lesion needs closer inspection using a handheld dermatoscope to see patterns under the skin surface.
- When appearance is uncertain, we discuss options such as a skin biopsy and send tissue to dermatopathology for microscopic diagnosis.
Why screening matters in Newburgh and the Hudson Valley
Skin cancers are easier to treat when found early. People in our area have a range of outdoor exposures, and early detection reduces the chance of more extensive procedures later. A screening helps you and your primary care team understand risk and plan follow up.
Who should consider screening
- Adults with many moles or atypical moles.
- People with a personal or family history of melanoma.
- Those with new or changing lesions, persistent sores, or spots that bleed or do not heal.
- Anyone with significant sun exposure or tanning history.
Key concepts to know
- ABCDE rule. Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6 millimeters, Evolving lesion. A change in any of these warrants evaluation.
- Dermoscopy. A noninvasive tool that improves detection by revealing subsurface structures not visible to the naked eye.
- Biopsy. The definitive test. Tissue is examined by a dermatopathologist to determine the exact diagnosis.
- Types of skin cancer. Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma have different appearances and risk profiles, and each is managed differently.
Common screening approaches and how they differ
| Approach | When it is used | What it finds |
|---|---|---|
| Full visual skin exam | Routine screening or initial visit | Surface changes, suspicious moles, obvious lesions |
| Dermoscopy | Targeted evaluation of specific lesions | Subsurface patterns that suggest benign or malignant growth |
| Skin biopsy | When a lesion cannot be classified by exam | Definitive diagnosis by histology |
What to expect during an exam
During a skin cancer screening we take a concise medical history, ask about changes you have noticed, and inspect your skin. We will examine the scalp, nails, and between toes when relevant. Exposed and nonexposed areas are both checked.
Bring these to your appointment
- A list of any new or changing spots you have noticed.
- Photos that show how a lesion looked in the past, if you have them.
- A record of personal or family skin cancer history, and your primary care physician name if you want coordinated care.
Pro tip: Take a clear photo of any spot that changes between visits. Photos help track subtle evolution over time.
When a biopsy or removal is recommended
If a lesion has features that do not match a benign diagnosis, we discuss tissue sampling. Options include shave biopsy, punch biopsy, or excisional biopsy, chosen for the lesion type and location. After diagnosis, treatment may include simple excision, staged excision, or referral for specialized care when indicated.
How we coordinate care
We review biopsy results with you, explain the findings, and outline next steps. When pathology shows invasive cancer, we coordinate with referring physicians and surgical specialists if more advanced care is needed.
Related services we provide
Our practice covers routine and problem focused care that supports screening and follow up. See our dermatology services for comprehensive care. For lesions that need treatment we provide skin lesion evaluation and removal options and we explain scar revision and cosmetic considerations when appropriate.
- Dermatology service for routine exams and medical management.
- Skin lesion treatment for lesion removal and follow up care.
- Mole checks topic page with guidance on monitoring atypical nevi.
- Skin biopsy guide explaining biopsy types and what results mean.
- Lesion removal options when a procedure is needed.
- Benign skin lesions to help you understand common noncancerous findings.
Related locations and access in the Hudson Valley
We serve Newburgh and surrounding Hudson Valley communities and emphasize convenient access to care close to home. For information about our facility and where to find us, see our locations hub.
Helpful external resources
Authoritative sources explain prevention, signs, and when to seek evaluation. For general guidance from recognized organizations, see the American Academy of Dermatology and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention pages on skin cancer and sun safety.
Common questions about screening
How often should I have a screening
Screening frequency depends on your risk. People with a history of skin cancer, many atypical moles, or significant sun exposure often need more frequent checks. We assess individual risk and recommend an interval that fits your situation.
Will a screening hurt
A visual exam is painless. If a biopsy is needed, local anesthesia is used and you may have temporary soreness. We explain options and aftercare before any procedure.
Frequently asked questions
What does dermoscopy do that a visual exam does not
Dermoscopy uses magnification and polarized light to reveal pigment patterns and structures below the skin surface. It improves diagnostic accuracy for many pigmented lesions, and helps decide whether biopsy is needed.
Can a screening prevent skin cancer
Screening itself does not prevent skin cancer, but it helps detect cancers early when they are easier to treat. Prevention focuses on sun protection and avoiding tanning beds, while screening supports early detection.
What kinds of biopsy are used
We commonly use shave, punch, or excisional biopsies depending on the lesion size and location. Each method provides tissue for dermatopathology to determine the diagnosis.
Are mole mapping or total body photography available
For patients with many moles or high risk, clinical photography and mole mapping can be useful to document lesions and detect changes over time. We discuss whether these tools are appropriate during your visit.
What should I watch for between exams
Look for new growths, sores that do not heal, change in an existing mole by the ABCDE rule, bleeding, itching, or rapid growth. Photograph changes and report them at your next visit.
Will removal leave a scar
Any procedure that removes tissue can leave a scar. We discuss incision techniques, expected healing, and scar revision options if appearance is a concern. Scar minimization is part of the treatment planning discussion.
Key takeaway
Skin cancer screening is a focused medical exam to find suspicious lesions early. We combine clinical exam, dermoscopy, and judicious use of biopsy to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate plan that balances medical and cosmetic goals.
Where to learn more and find us
Check Greenblatt Henry A MD | Horizon Family Medical Group | Dermatology on Google Business Profile to read patient feedback and get directions. To explore related topics and services on this site, see our services and topics hub pages.