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Skin Cancer Risk Profile of Asymptomatic Patients Seeking Periodic Skin Examinations for Skin Cancer Concerns
1Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.
JAMA Dermatology
|May 20, 2026
Summary
Routine skin cancer surveillance may include many low-risk individuals. Implementing simple triage based on age, skin type, and history can identify those at higher risk for skin cancer (SC).
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Comprehensive skin examinations are common for asymptomatic individuals, leading to skin cancer (SC) surveillance.
- This practice may include patients with a low risk of developing SC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the demographics, SC risk factors, and outcomes of asymptomatic individuals seeking skin examinations.
- To identify patients at higher risk for SC development.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study analyzed data from a previsit survey of new patients at a dermatology clinic.
- Patients sought general skin examinations due to concerns about SC, without specific complaints.
- Risk factors evaluated included demographics, skin phototype, and personal/family history of SC.
Main Results:
- 1074 asymptomatic patients seeking SC surveillance were analyzed.
- 38 SCs were diagnosed; 37 occurred in patients with skin types I-III.
- The number needed to examine to diagnose one SC was significantly lower in older patients and those with a history of SC.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic patients seeking SC surveillance may include many low-risk individuals.
- Triage criteria (age, skin type, SC history) can help identify patients at higher risk for SC.
- This approach can optimize SC surveillance resource allocation.
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