Skin self-examination

Routine self-examination of the skin is a method in which individuals can take responsibility for identifying MM early when it is curable. Pamphlets and online information describing the method of skin self-examination are available from agencies such as the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org), the American Academy of Dermatology (www.AAD.org), and the Skin Cancer Foundation (www.skincancer.org). Patients should be given the following instructions for doing total skin self-examination 36... 

Educate the patient on how to do skin self-examination for suspicious moles. 

Self-examination of the skin places the responsibilities of identification on the individual. Identification of early melanoma allows the opportunity to treat the lesions when they are thin and curable. Educational pamphlets describing the method of self-examination (Table 133-2) for the public are available through the American Cancer Society, the American Academy of Dermatology, and the Skin Cancer Foundation. If a newly discovered pigmented lesion is identified or if a preexisting pigmented lesion changes, the individual should be evaluated by a physician immediately. 

The results of early treatment emphasize the role for early detection and prevention. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends monthly self-examination of skin to serve as a mechanism of recognizing moles or marks on the skin that may be melanoma. Patients with a strong family history should have a clinical examination, and in some cases, screening photography to document size, shape, and location of moles. 

Dermatitis. In most cases the skin and lid lesions of varicella-zoster are self-limited and benign. The primary concern should be coincident keratitis, and thus the swollen lids must be carefully separated so that the cornea can be examined.The treatment of corneal lesions is discussed in Chapter 26. 

Ammonia - NHj 7664-41-7 flammable gas, causes tissue bums, strong respiratory irritant bp = -33.3 C [-28 F] er = 15-28% sp g 0.6 PEL = 50 ppm. May cause severe injury to respiratory system and eyes, common 35% laboratory solution can cause severe skin bums. High concentrations may cause temporary blindness. Baseline physical should stress respiratory system and eyes. Skin should be examined for existing disorders. Tests should include pulmonary function and chest X-ray. Should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and rubber shoe covers when cleaning up a spiU (by dilution with ample amounts of water and mop to a drain). On EPA list of extremely hazardous substances, 40 CFR Section 302. 

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