Visual Examination
According to the American Cancer Society, the first step in diagnosing suspected skin cancer is a visual examination of the patient. Skin cancer typically begins as a change of color, size or texture of a freckle, mole or other spot of skin that is noticeably different. A doctor or dermatologist will examine the area in question and note the size, shape and color of the spot and check for bleeding and scaling. She will also take a family and personal health history and look for other suspicious spots on the rest of the body. Nearby lymph nodes may be examined for swelling, and she may check the area with a special light source and magnifying glass.
Biopsy
The National Cancer Institute states that the next step is for the doctor to perform a biopsy, which is the only way to get a definitive diagnosis of skin cancer. During a biopsy, the doctor will attempt to remove the entire growth. If the suspicious-looking growth is too large to be excised, he will remove a sample of the suspicious tissue, which will be examined by a qualified pathologist to determine whether it is indeed cancerous. A biopsy is typically performed in the doctor's office, using general anesthesia.
Other Tests
The American Cancer Society explains that if skin cancer is suspected and a doctor has reason to believe it has spread, specific imaging tests may be ordered to determine the extent of the cancer. Depending on the type of skin cancer suspected and the area of the body where the spot is located, the attending physician or dermatologist may order X-rays, CT (computed tomography) scans, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans, PET (positron emission tomography) scans or bone scans in order to determine the stage of the cancer and the best treatment course.
