If you have a family history of melanoma it’s never too early to get a baseline skin exam by a board certified dermatologist. Anyone who has atypical moles, spots that are new or changing, or medical issues such as immunosuppression, should be seen right away for a skin check. Primary doctors may refer you for an earlier check if you have risk factors as well. Total body skin exams are not usually part of the general physical examination performed by primary care providers (PCPs) or non dermatology specialists. More often, only exposed areas relevant to the physical exam are evaluated. In general, if you’re not sure, come in and get a full body skin exam by a board certified dermatologist!
Learn more about why you should see a board certified dermatologist here!