Full Body Skin Exam in a 73-Year-Old Female: Benign Findings and Sun Protection Counseling
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, we encourage patients of all ages to schedule routine full body skin exams. These comprehensive evaluations are an essential way to monitor for skin cancer, track changes in moles, and identify other skin conditions. This case highlights a 73-year-old female who presented for a preventive exam.
Patient Presentation
A 73-year-old female came to our clinic as a new patient for a full body skin examination. She reported new but stable lesions on the right and left upper back. The lesions had been present for several months, were moderate in severity, and had not changed recently.
She had no history of skin cancer but wanted reassurance and preventive counseling.
Dermatologic Examination
A head-to-toe exam was performed, including the scalp, face, trunk, extremities, nails, and mucosal surfaces. A dermatoscope was used to assess pigmented lesions.
Findings included:
Benign Nevi (Moles): Symmetrical, evenly colored macules and papules throughout.
Seborrheic Keratoses: Flat, waxy pigmented growths, common with aging.
Lentigines (Sun Spots): Light tan macules in sun-exposed areas, consistent with sun damage.
Cherry Angiomas: Bright red vascular papules scattered across the skin.
No suspicious or malignant lesions were detected during the exam.
Impression and Plan
Benign Nevi
Stable, non-worrisome moles.
Counseling: Monthly self-skin checks recommended.
When to call the office: Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color, or begins to itch, burn, or bleed.
Seborrheic Keratoses
Benign age-related growths.
Counseling: No treatment necessary unless irritated or for cosmetic reasons.
Lentigines (Sun Spots)
Result of chronic sun exposure and damage.
Treatment options discussed: sunscreen, bleaching creams, retinoids, chemical peels, and laser therapy.
Daily regimen recommended:
Broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
Vitamin C serum in the morning for added antioxidant protection
Lip balm with SPF
Wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing for long outdoor exposure
Cherry Angiomas
Small, benign blood vessel growths.
Counseling: Treatment not required, but removal possible with laser or electrodesiccation if cosmetically desired.
Key Takeaway
This case demonstrates the importance of full body skin exams for older adults, even when lesions appear stable or benign. Routine evaluations provide reassurance, early detection of skin cancers, and personalized skin care guidance.
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, TX, we specialize in comprehensive skin exams, mole evaluations, and preventive sun care counseling.
