Summer is fast approaching, and those who have the opportunity have already started to bask in the initial sunlight, whether from their balcony, terrace or on their first outings out of town. However, the onset of sunshine shouldn’t be taken lightly. It necessitates a dermatological examination to assess skin health and identify any issues that could worsen due to sun exposure.
When is a Dermatological Examination Necessary?
A dermatological examination is crucial for various purposes:
- To prevent, rule out, diagnose, or monitor skin conditions.
- In cases where there’s a known dermatologic disorder or if particular circumstances exist, such as:
- The appearance of a new mole or changes in the size and shape of an existing mole.
- Skin rashes, including spots, hives, or alterations in skin texture.
- Subjective symptoms like itching or burning.
How is a Dermatological Examination Conducted?
The process of a dermatological examination typically unfolds as follows:
- Gathering Patient Information: This begins with collecting comprehensive information about the patient, which includes:
- Family history.
- Pre-existing conditions.
- Lifestyle details.
- Dietary habits.
- Physical activity levels.
- Alcohol consumption.
- Smoking habits.
- Medication use.
- Inquiring About Symptom Characteristics: The dermatologist delves into the specifics of the symptoms, such as:
- The duration of the symptoms.
- When the symptoms first appeared.
