The most common form of cancer is skin cancer. A dermatologist can perform a check for skin cancer. At the Roosevelt clinic are very experienced dermatologist who are experts at diagnosing and treating skin cancer. In Holland it is possible to get an insured checkup with a referral from a local practitioner. Without a referral is also possible.
Klik hier voor het maken van een afspraak
Checking for skin cancer is possible with any type of skin cancer. The most common forms of skin cancer are: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. These types of skin cancer can be present in many shapes and sizes. Beginning with the basal cell carcinoma: it is translucent with a pearly color. It can also have more of a fleshy color. It can show tiny blood vessels on the surface and ulceration can be present as well. Squamous cell carcinoma looks more like a sore, which is crusted and red. It can also be more of a bump. The squamous cell carcinoma grows rapidly. Melanoma is an area that is asymmetrical and has different colors that variate. Usually the melanoma is bigger than 5 mm in diameter. The cause of these types of skin cancer is most of the times exposure to sun light. The risks are for example: sunny vacations, long days under the sun (at the beach or work). Tanning beds are also a risk because of the UV-light. Melanoma can also run in the family, so make sure you tell that to your dermatologist.
What type of skin cancer treatment you may need depends on the type of skin cancer. This link shows more information in Dutch. Basal cell carcinomas can sometimes be treated by applying a topical cream to the skin cancer area. In most cases, however, the skin cancer must be surgically removed. An advantage of excision is that it can be sent to a pathologist who will be checking for skin cancer under a microscope and will make sure if the cancer is completely gone. The doctors at the Roosevelt clinic are highly skilled and experienced dermato-surgeons. When removing a melanoma an extra excision will be executed around the scar tissue to make sure everything is removed. This is according to Dutch operating guidelines. In some rare cases a referral is needed to an academic practicing center.
Health insurance covers the costs of the checkup with a referral. Without a referral you have to pay the costs for full body check yourself. You can find the costs here. The moment when the dermatologist suspects any lesions on the skin he will let you know. In addition: the lesions in order for checking for skin cancer can be sent to a pathologist after removal. Extra costs will arise when a pathologist is involved. Click on this link for a pricelist here or ask the dermatologist for the costs. You should get a referral if you suspect any kind of skin abnormality.
Make an appointment with the dermatologist, click here.