Melanoma is not the only type of skin cancer

A husband and wife in their early 40’s presented for routine 6 monthly skin checks.

They both had digital mapping performed and 2 lesions were identified on the wife.

She was unaware that these lesions were present as clinically they were diagnosed early. Both skin lesions were in areas she could not easily see but using our digital imaging system and our expertise they were obvious. These images were shown to the patient and she was surprised.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

They both were found to be early Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCC) and were completely excised.

She was advised that regular 6 monthly digital monitoring of her skin was recommended, as her risk of Melanoma and any other skin cancer was 10 times higher after the SCC.

Preventative advice was also given on how to protect her skin from excessive UV exposure.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The husband was found to have a nodular Basal Cell Carcinoma on his inner right cheek close to his left lower eyelid.

Both the patient and his wife had difficulty seeing this lesion even when it was pointed out - as it was a pearly colour and of similar texture to the surrounding fair skin of this patient. They were requesting a biopsy be performed to confirm the diagnosis prior to any excision.

Lesions Digitally Magnified

The lesion was displayed on-screen and magnified using our digital imaging systems.

The suspected Basal Cell Carcinoma's features, size, and its extent was immediately apparent to the point where both patients excitedly pointed at the screen, totally amazed with what they saw.

The lesion was subsequently carefully excised without further delay. The The preliminary diagnosis of a BCC was confirmed and complete excision was performed..

The cosmetic result was excellent, and the patient was advised to continue routine 6 monthly sequential digital monitoring of his skin, as well as given advice on how to protect his skin from excessive UV exposure.