Case Report: Full Body Skin Examination in a 52-Year-Old Female with Multiple Benign Lesions | Village Dermatology Katy & Houston, TX

Sep 22

Introduction

Full body skin examinations are a vital part of preventive dermatology, particularly for patients with a history of tanning bed use or multiple skin lesions. At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, our dermatologists carefully evaluate the skin for concerning growths while providing patient education about sun safety and skin cancer prevention. This case highlights a 52-year-old female who presented for her annual skin examination.

Patient Presentation

The patient, a 52-year-old female, presented for a routine full body skin exam. She reported skin lesions on the chest that had been present for several months. They were asymptomatic and of moderate severity. She has a history of tanning bed use, which increases her risk of skin cancer.

Examination

A comprehensive full body skin exam was performed, including the scalp, face, trunk, extremities, nails, and groin (patient declined underwear removal). A dermatoscope was used for detailed mole evaluation.

Findings included:

Benign nevi: Regular, symmetrical moles without concerning features
Lentigines: Sun-induced pigmented lesions (sunspots)
Cherry angiomas: Small vascular growths
Seborrheic keratoses: Benign, warty growths
Dermatofibromas: Firm nodules on right calf and left buttock
Rash on right ear: Possible dermatitis, differential includes seborrheic dermatitis vs. eczema
Neoplasm of uncertain behavior: Courtesy liquid nitrogen (LN2) treatment performed

The patient was otherwise well-appearing, alert, and in no acute distress.

Counseling & Management

1. History of Tanning Bed Use

Counseling on increased melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma risk
Emphasized sun avoidance, sunscreen SPF 30+, and protective clothing

2. Benign Nevi (D22.9)

No treatment required
Patient educated on monthly self-skin checks and to return for changes in size, color, or symptoms

3. Lentigines (L81.4)

Benign, but may be treated with sunscreen, retinoids, chemical peels, or laser if desired
Counseling on consistent broad spectrum SPF 30+ use

4. Cherry Angiomas (D18.01)

Benign vascular lesions, no treatment required
May be removed with laser or electrodesiccation if cosmetic concerns arise

5. Seborrheic Keratoses (L82.1)

Common, benign growths that increase with age
No treatment needed

6. Dermatofibromas (D23.71, D23.5)

Benign scar-like nodules
Stable, but may be surgically removed if symptomatic or enlarging

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7. Dermatitis, Unspecified (L30.9)

Rash on right ear treated with over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream
Patient advised to return if not improving

8. Neoplasm of Uncertain Behavior

Treated with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy today
Monitored for resolution; follow-up in 1 year

Conclusion

This case demonstrates the importance of comprehensive annual skin exams, especially in patients with risk factors such as tanning bed history. At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, TX, we provide thorough evaluations, identify both benign and concerning lesions, and counsel patients on skin cancer prevention and sun safety.

Honey Cisneros