Early detection of skin cancer is important. Dunedin Skin and Surgery Clinic provides skin cancer checks and mole assessments for new, changing or concerning moles, freckles, sunspots and skin lesions.

A skin check involves careful clinical assessment of the skin, with dermoscopic examination of selected lesions where appropriate. Clinical or dermoscopic photographs may be taken when useful for monitoring, comparison or treatment planning.

Skin cancers commonly include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Actinic keratoses, also known as solar keratoses, are sun-damaged precancerous lesions that may indicate an increased risk of future skin cancer. Some skin cancers develop on sun-exposed areas, but they can also occur on areas not usually exposed to sunlight.

You should consider a skin check if you notice a new or changing mole, a spot that looks different from others, a lesion that bleeds, crusts, grows, changes colour, becomes painful or does not heal. A history of significant sun exposure, sunburns, previous skin cancer, many moles or a family history of melanoma may also increase the need for regular skin assessment.

If a concerning lesion is found, Dr Sharma will explain the findings and discuss suitable options. These may include monitoring, biopsy, excision, cryotherapy, topical treatment, referral or follow-up review depending on the clinical situation.

Dunedin Skin and Surgery Clinic provides assessment and treatment planning for suitable benign, precancerous and suspicious skin lesions. Our aim is to support early detection, clear explanation and appropriate treatment with careful follow-up.