Yield from a complete skin examination. Findings in 1157 new dermatology patients

Abstract

A complete skin examination has been recommended by many dermatologists. The purpose of this study was to determine the yield of this examination. Of 1157 consecutively treated new dermatology patients, 1106 (96%) agreed to a total skin examination. Important incidental lesions were found in 162 (15%) of these patients. The types of incidental findings included (1) rashes helpful in establishing the primary diagnosis--20 patients (1.8%); (2) important rashes unrelated to the primary diagnosis--37 patients (3.3%); (3) malignant tumors--22 patients (2.0%); (4) clinically dysplastic nevi--25 patients (2.3%); and (5) congenital nevi--31 patients (2.8%). One patient had an incidental melanoma and another was found to have Kaposi's sarcoma, which led to the diagnosis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It is concluded that a complete skin examination is productive and it is recommended for all new dermatology patients.