Early detection saves lives. Clarus Dermatology provides thorough skin cancer screenings for Minneapolis, MN residents at our New Brighton and Minnetonka offices, both easily accessible from anywhere in the Minneapolis metro. Our board-certified dermatologists use advanced diagnostic techniques to detect melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other skin cancers at their earliest and most treatable stages.
Why Annual Skin Cancer Screenings Matter
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, with over five million cases treated each year. When caught early, most skin cancers are highly treatable — but delayed diagnosis can lead to more extensive surgery, disfigurement, or in the case of melanoma, life-threatening metastasis. A professional full-body skin exam performed by a board-certified dermatologist is the most reliable way to identify suspicious lesions before they progress.
At Clarus Dermatology, we recommend annual skin cancer screenings for all adults, with more frequent examinations for patients who have elevated risk factors such as a personal or family history of skin cancer, a history of severe sunburns, fair skin, or a large number of moles.
What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening
A skin cancer screening at Clarus Dermatology is a quick, non-invasive examination that typically takes 15 to 20 minutes. During the visit, your dermatologist will:
- Perform a full-body visual examination — systematically inspecting the skin from scalp to soles, including areas you cannot easily see yourself
- Use dermoscopy — a specialized magnification tool that allows your dermatologist to examine the subsurface structures of moles and lesions in greater detail
- Document and photograph suspicious or atypical lesions for monitoring and comparison at future visits
- Recommend biopsy when indicated — if a lesion appears concerning, a small tissue sample can be taken and sent to a dermatopathology lab for definitive diagnosis
Types of Skin Cancer We Screen For
Our surgical dermatology team is trained to identify all major forms of skin cancer:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) — the most common skin cancer, often appearing as a pearly or waxy bump, typically on sun-exposed areas
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) — a cancer that may present as a firm red nodule or a flat, scaly lesion, sometimes mistaken for eczema or a persistent sore
- Melanoma — the most dangerous form of skin cancer, arising from pigment-producing melanocytes, often presenting as an asymmetric, irregularly bordered, or multicolored mole
- Merkel cell carcinoma — a rare but aggressive skin cancer that appears as a painless, firm nodule
- Actinic keratoses — rough, scaly precancerous patches that can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated
Advanced Treatment When Skin Cancer Is Found
If a screening reveals skin cancer, Clarus Dermatology offers comprehensive treatment options under one roof. Dr. Neil A. Shah is a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, specializing in the precise removal of skin cancers with the highest cure rates and maximum tissue preservation. Mohs micrographic surgery is the gold standard for treating basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, particularly in cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, ears, and hands.
Additional treatment options include standard surgical excision, cryotherapy, topical chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy, depending on the type, size, and location of the cancer.
Skin Cancer Risk Factors for Minneapolis Residents
Many Minneapolis residents underestimate their skin cancer risk because of Minnesota’s northern climate. However, UV exposure is cumulative over a lifetime, and outdoor activities such as boating, hiking, golfing, and skiing contribute significantly to total UV exposure. Snow and water both reflect UV radiation, increasing the dose received during winter and summer recreation alike.
If you have any of the following risk factors, a regular screening schedule is especially important:
- Fair skin, light eyes, or red or blond hair
- History of blistering sunburns, especially before age 18
- Personal or family history of skin cancer or melanoma
- More than 50 moles or any atypical moles
- History of tanning bed use
- Weakened immune system or immunosuppressive medications
Locations Serving Minneapolis
Minneapolis patients can visit our New Brighton or Minnetonka offices for skin cancer screenings. Clarus Dermatology also has locations in Maple Grove, Hugo, Otsego, and Spicer — six offices throughout the Twin Cities and central Minnesota.
To schedule a skin cancer screening, call (612) 213-2370 or use the online scheduler on this page to book your appointment today.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Skin cancer screening outcomes and treatment recommendations vary by individual. A board-certified dermatologist will assess your risk factors and recommend an appropriate screening schedule during your visit.
