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In light of the recent passing of Jimmy Buffett, we see this as a time to educate the public on the rare but severe skin cancer, Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC). While most skin cancer deaths are from melanoma, MCC has been sparsely heard of in a general sense. Unfortunately, MCC is such a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that it often catches patients and healthcare professionals off guard due to its rapid progression and potential for metastasis.
In light of the recent passing of Jimmy Buffett, we see this as a time to educate the public on the rare but serious skin cancer, Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC). While most skin cancer deaths are from melanoma, MCC has been sparsely heard of in a general sense. Unfortunately, MCC is such a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that it often catches patients and healthcare professionals off guard due to its rapid progression and potential for metastasis.
Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer, and while melanoma is relatively less common, it is among the most dangerous and aggressive forms. Melanoma originates from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the skin pigment melanin. Although it accounts for a small percentage of skin cancer cases, it is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths (American Cancer Society, n.d.).
Our skin changes as we age, gathering marks that tell the stories of our lives. Among these marks, moles are often front and center. While most moles are harmless, it's crucial to discern between benign spots and potential signs of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is a serious health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain individuals are more susceptible to its occurrence due to various risk factors.
Skin cancer ranks among the most widespread forms of cancer worldwide, and its prevalence continues to rise. Understanding the areas most prone to skin cancer is crucial for early detection and effective prevention.
While it is important for everyone to protect themselves from the harmful effects of the sun, individuals who are more prone to AK and have had it before may require additional attention.
Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a common skin condition caused by prolonged sun exposure. Also known as solar keratosis, it manifests as rough, scaly patches on the skin, usually on areas frequently exposed to the sun.
Skin cancer affects millions of people in the United States every year. Statistics show that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
Developed basal cell carcinomas appear as translucent pink/red bumps with a central depression and prominent blood vessels that frequently bleed with little or no trauma.
Melanoma can present with many different appearances making a simple description very tricky.
Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma comprise over 92% of all skin cancers diagnosed with the remaining percentage composed of a myriad of less common skin cancers.
Early detection matters in improving patient outcomes. Performing monthly skin exams on yourself or loved ones is a very helpful way to detect early skin cancer.
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CheckMySpot proudly supports the following organizations also committed to the early detection of skin cancer:
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5-Star Reviews
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Stephen K.
The CheckMySpot app is a helpful innovation in healthcare because it improves accessibility to dermatologists. The benefit is twofold: with a decrease in the number of patient visits for lesions that don’t require treatment, more appointments are available for people with serious skin lesions. Secondly, for patients with skin cancer, a recommendation for prompt evaluation aids in early detection. Following the easy instructions, I have submitted a photo of a mole that, thankfully, was classified as benign. The process was convenient and my family’s anxiety was quickly eased. I did not have to be unproductive or risk being exposed to infection while waiting in the doctor’s office. I plan to watch carefully for any new skin lesions on my family members and me in the future. I will not hesitate to use CheckMySpot again.
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Wendy T.
I cannot recommend this service strongly enough! On two separate occasions, my family members had skin lesions that warranted attention. I quickly submitted photos and received prompt responses. One lesion ended up being benign, which relieved our worries. The other lesion, a basal cell carcinoma, required treatment. CheckMySpot quickly referred me to my dermatologist where I received the care I needed and the outcome was successful! I was very happy with this service and will use again.
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Vanessa M.
I was very pleased with the quick response to my inquiry with the CheckMySpot professionals. What a relief to find out that the new skin lesion I was worried about was benign. It was so convenient to use my phone from home to contact a doctor rather than spend a day away from work in an office. I highly recommend using this service!
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Susan T.
My experience with CheckMySpot has been great!!! As a full-time working wife and mother, I am constantly on-the-go and find it hard to schedule doctor’s appointments. It is so convenient to have the option of sending a picture of a concerning mole or lesion and receive a quick response as to whether I need an in person examination, or if my spot is nothing to worry about! Thank you for such a wonderful service - I plan on using it in the future for myself and my family.
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R. Smith
Although my mom received adequate care at her senior living facility, getting her to an off-site physician’s appointment took a lot of preparation and expense. When I noticed a new skin spot on her forehead, I was concerned about a cancer. Her caregiver told me about CheckMySpot. I used the service and heard within a day that the spot was worrisome for skin cancer. This made my decision to take time off work and arrange transportation to her dermatologist easier knowing an appointment was truly necessary. Just a minor procedure was required to fix the problem. I love this service. Highest recommendations!
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Kim B.
I am thrilled to learn that CheckMySpot will launch in early 2023. I am confident it will improve access to important dermatological screening services that are high quality and convenient. Quite a few years ago I noticed a very small spot on my left forearm. The spot was smaller than a pinhead and to my untrained eye looked no different than a freckle. I reached out to CheckMySpot and their provider asked me to use my smartphone to send a photo of the spot. Thank goodness I did! After reviewing the photo, the CheckMySpot team urged me to make an appointment with my local dermatologist. The spot turned out to be a small melanoma caught early and removed, thanks to CheckMySpot’s assessment of the photo I sent.
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Mickey M.
In using “CheckMySpot,” the quick turn around and help from the dermatology provider was great. With our busy schedules, being able to take a picture and send it right over is so convenient. It is also very comforting to know that the professional staff takes great care in analyzing your “spot” and giving you guidance on what to do next. We will be using this again in the future!
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M. Thomas
I am a father of two, soon to be three and frequently on the road with my work. My wife was very concerned about a spot on my back that I couldn’t see. It was 6 weeks before I could get in to my dermatologist. We used the CheckMySpot service and within a day or two we received the great news that this spot appeared ok. We just can’t take chances with our health. We were so relieved and pleased. This is such a great service for families like ours!