Unlike other diseases, the workup for melanoma is pretty straightforward. For any skin lesions, your dermatologist will give you a head-to-toe visual examination to look for any other atypical moles or suspicious lesions.
If a growth warrants further evaluation, you might get a biopsy. And if advanced melanoma is found, you may need additional imaging and blood tests to help determine the best treatment plan.
Read More Blood tests may include:
- Complete blood count (CBC): looks at the number and types of cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): measures the blood levels of certain enzymes, proteins, electrolytes, and minerals
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): an enzyme that’s increased in many cancers
- CT scan: uses x-rays and a computer to create detailed images of your body
- PET scan: uses radioactive materials (called tracers) and a special camera to create pictures of areas inside the body where cancer may be growing
- MRI: Uses radio waves and magnets to create images of organs and tissues
It’s important to remember that many atypical skin lesions are not cancer. So don’t worry if your doctor finds something that looks a bit strangeit may just be a benign growth. If you have any concerns about the findings, be sure to talk with your doctor.
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