Comprehensive Skin Evaluation and Preventive Counseling
Village Dermatology | Katy & Houston, Texas
In addition to evaluating the concerning pigmented lesion on the ear, the patient underwent a comprehensive full-body skin examination (FBSE) at Village Dermatology. Multiple benign skin findings were identified, and detailed counseling was provided to support long-term skin health and cancer prevention.
Benign Skin Findings and Counseling
Seborrheic Keratoses
Seborrheic keratoses were identified and discussed with the patient.
Patient Education:
Seborrheic keratoses are benign, non-cancerous growths
They often appear as warty or “stuck-on” lesions
These growths commonly increase with age
Plan:
Reassurance and counseling only. No treatment was required.
Cherry Angiomas
Diagnosis: Cherry angiomas
Location: Right superior medial upper back
Patient Education:
Cherry angiomas are benign vascular growths
Treatment is not medically necessary
Cosmetic treatment options include laser therapy or electrodesiccation if desired
Plan:
Counseling and reassurance.
Lentigines
Diagnosis: Lentigines
Location: Left superior medial upper back
Patient Education:
Lentigines are benign pigmented lesions commonly related to sun exposure
They frequently occur on sun-damaged skin
These lesions are highly treatable
Treatment Options Discussed:
Broad-spectrum sunscreen
Sun avoidance
Bleaching creams
Retinoids
Chemical peels
Laser treatments
Plan:
Counseling with emphasis on sun protection.
Sun Protection Counseling
Given the patient’s sun-related skin findings and family history, comprehensive sunscreen education was provided.
Recommendations:
SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of harmful UV rays
Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure
Reapply every 2 hours, or every 45–60 minutes when swimming or sweating
Use approximately one ounce (shot glass amount) to cover exposed skin
Use lip balm with SPF
Sun-protective clothing is an effective alternative when worn consistently
Acrochordons (Skin Tags)
Diagnosis: Acrochordons
Location: Right inferior anterior neck
Patient Education:
Skin tags are benign skin growths
Commonly occur on the neck and underarms
Can become irritated by clothing or jewelry
Treatment Options:
Surgical removal
Liquid nitrogen if symptomatic or cosmetically bothersome
Plan:
Counseling and reassurance.
Family History of Malignant Melanoma
Risk Factor: Father deceased from malignant melanoma (Z80.8)
Patient Counseling:
A first-degree relative with melanoma increases personal risk
Monthly self-skin examinations are essential
Watch for moles that change in size, shape, or color, or that itch, bleed, or burn
Daily sun protection and protective clothing are critical
Instructions:
Contact the office immediately for any new or changing lesions.
Preventive Health & Quality Measures (MIPS)
The following quality measures were addressed:
Tobacco Use Screening: Patient is an ex/non-smoker
Alcohol Use Screening: No unhealthy alcohol use identified
Medication Reconciliation: Current medications documented
Follow-Up Plan
The patient was advised to return in one year for a full-body skin examination (FBSE) or sooner if any new or changing skin lesions are noted.
Why This Matters
This case underscores the importance of early evaluation, biopsy when indicated, routine skin checks, and patient education—especially for individuals with a family history of melanoma. Early diagnosis truly saves lives.
At Village Dermatology, we are proud to provide expert, compassionate dermatologic care to patients in Katy, Houston, and surrounding Texas communities.
