Keratinocyte Carcinoma: Canadian Landscape and an Evidence-based Approach to Follow-up

Dermatologists play a vital role in the early detection, prevention and effective management of skin cancer in patients with a prior history of the disease. Regular monitoring and timely interventions greatly enhance the overall prognosis and quality of life for patients with skin cancer. Dermatologists possess the requisite expertise to accurately diagnose and oversee the management of cutaneous skin cancers. Skin cancer screening via total body skin exam (TBSE) is often considered one of the safest, easiest, and most cost-effective tests in medicine. Despite dermatologists’ ability to offer such invaluable care for this patient population, offering routine skin checks for all patients with a prior history of skin cancer becomes exceptionally challenging given the high demand for dermatology care across Canada. It is important for dermatologists to maximize the efficiency of care during TBSEs by adhering to evidence-based guidelines when determining the frequency and duration of follow-up. These guidelines also provide a solid foundation for discussions with patients regarding the rationale for discharge back to their primary care provider.