Overview of skin cancer detection and prevention for the primary care physician

Mayo Clin Proc. 2000 May;75(5):491-500. doi: 10.4065/75.5.491.

Abstract

The incidence of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer is increasing, and an accurate and timely diagnosis is important to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with these malignancies. Clinical features and examination techniques are discussed, and the need to recognize important secondary tumor characteristics, which supplement the primary diagnosis, is reviewed. Recent evidence on etiologic factors and their importance are addressed to highlight the role of primary prevention. Pediatricians, family physicians, and all primary care physicians are encouraged to promote skin cancer awareness among children and their parents.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / etiology
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / prevention & control
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / etiology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / prevention & control
  • Disease Progression
  • Facial Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Facial Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Keratosis / diagnosis
  • Melanoma / diagnosis*
  • Melanoma / prevention & control
  • Physical Examination
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Skin Neoplasms / etiology
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Skin Pigmentation