Dermatologists

Skin cancers can be detected early with a visual examination of all of the skin, typically performed by a dermatologist.

Dermatologists may use a dermatoscope (or dermoscope) which is an instrument enabling accurate visual reading of lesions on the skin. This helps distinguish benign from malignant skin lesions in cases of doubt. This painless examination consists of placing on the skin a magnifying device fitted with a light source that illuminates the skin through a liquid applied to the lesion to be examined. If necessary, photographs may be taken during this examination.  

If a suspicious spot or mole is detected, the dermatologist can then decide if it is only necessary to monitor it or if it needs to be removed and analysed. Since 1998, the dermatologists' union has been organising a free, anonymous national screening day for these cancers.