Skin conditions · By referral · Covered by MSP
If you have a spot that is new, changing, or just doesn't look quite right, it is worth having it properly assessed. A professional check offers reassurance when a spot is harmless, and catches the ones that need attention early.
It is worth having a mole or spot looked at if it is new, or if it is changing in size, shape, or colour. Dermatologists use the ABCDE guide as a prompt: Asymmetry, an irregular Border, more than one Colour, a larger Diameter, and any spot that is Evolving. A spot that itches, bleeds, or simply looks different from your other moles - the "ugly duckling" - is also worth checking. If you have had a lot of sun exposure or a personal or family history of skin cancer, regular checks make sense.
A check is a focused examination of the spot, or of your skin more broadly if that is the reason for referral. Concerning lesions are examined with a dermatoscope - a special magnifier that reveals detail the naked eye cannot see - to help tell reassuring spots from those that need a closer look. Most of the time the outcome is reassurance and simple advice on what to watch for.
If a lesion has features that warrant it, the next step may be a biopsy - taking a small sample, or removing the whole lesion, and sending it to the lab to confirm what it is - or onward referral where that is the right path. Nothing concerning is brushed off, and you will leave understanding what was found and what happens next.
This is distinct from removing a spot you already know is harmless - if you have a benign growth you would simply like removed, that is covered on the benign lesion removal page. Checks and any medically necessary follow-up are covered by MSP and seen by referral.
Ask your family doctor or nurse practitioner to send a referral to Dr. Baldwin at Hillside Medical Clinic in Victoria or Kensington Medical Clinic in Burnaby, and the clinic will contact you to arrange an appointment.