Hi presh they will likely take a look at it with a dermascope a kind of portable magnifying glass. They might take a punch biopsy where they take a small sample and send it off to be examined. Results take 2 weeks to a month to be reported. You will then get a letter or an appointment to let you know the diagnosis. Then a wait for doctors to decide your treatment then a possibly very long wait if you need surgery depends on which type of skin cancer you may have. But really try not to worry you will be well looked after and it may not turn out to be cancer. One of my visits for suspected melanoma where a punch biopsy was taken the letter I received said it was consistent with a freckle what a relief. All the best for your appointment.
I am sorry to learn that you are worried about symptoms and have been referred to a dermatologist. I can appreciate this is a worrying time for you and you want to know what to expect.
The specialist will check your skin and ask you about any changes you've noticed. They may ask you questions about your general health and any medication you may be currently taking.
The specialist may use a magnifying device, such as a dermatoscope, which allows them to examine the skin more closely. They may also suggest taking a small sample of the affected skin (biopsy) for closer inspection to determine what it is.
The specialist will inform you as to how long it will take to receive the results of the biopsy and how you will be informed; either by letter or another appointment.
People often experience a whole range of emotions when waiting for appointments. We know that talking can often relieve some of the distress and anxiety. There's some useful advice about talking therapies and how to access them on the NHS website. In the meantime, Anxiety UK has a good website with helpful tips on how to deal with anxiety in these situations.
I hope you know more soon and that everything will be okay.
Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5 pm Monday to Friday.
