UV Safety Month: How Medical Imaging Helps Detect the Spread of Skin Cancer
Every July, UV Safety Month serves as a reminder to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. While prevention and early detection remain the best defenses against skin cancer, medical imaging also plays an important role when skin cancer has spread beyond the skin.
At Wisteria Imaging Institute, we provide advanced outpatient imaging services that help physicians evaluate many conditions throughout the body. When skin cancer is suspected of spreading, imaging can provide valuable information to help guide treatment decisions. Our experienced, board-certified, fellowship-trained radiologists are committed to delivering accurate results quickly in a comfortable, patient-focused environment.
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. The three primary types include:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least likely to spread.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Can become more aggressive if left untreated.
Melanoma: The most serious form of skin cancer due to its higher risk of spreading (metastasizing) to other parts of the body.
When detected early, many skin cancers can be treated successfully. However, if melanoma or advanced squamous cell carcinoma spreads beyond the skin, additional imaging studies may be recommended.
When Is Imaging Needed?
Most skin cancers are diagnosed through a skin examination and biopsy—not imaging.
Imaging becomes important when a physician needs to determine whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs. This information helps determine the stage of the disease and the most appropriate treatment plan.
Depending on your situation, your healthcare provider may recommend imaging if:
A melanoma is thick or considered high-risk.
Cancer is suspected in nearby lymph nodes.
Symptoms suggest the disease may have spread.
Treatment response needs to be monitored.
There is concern for recurrence after treatment.
Imaging Tests Used for Skin Cancer Metastasis
CT Scans
Computed Tomography (CT) uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
CT scans are commonly used to evaluate:
Chest
Abdomen
Pelvis
Enlarged lymph nodes
These scans help physicians identify whether cancer has spread to organs such as the lungs or liver.
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of soft tissues using powerful magnets and radio waves.
MRI is particularly useful for evaluating:
Brain
Spine
Soft tissue involvement
Physicians often order an MRI if melanoma is suspected to have spread to the brain or nervous system.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images without radiation.
It may be used to:
Evaluate enlarged lymph nodes
Guide needle biopsies
Monitor suspicious areas close to the skin
Why Early Detection Matters
When skin cancer spreads, finding it early can make a significant difference in treatment planning.
Imaging helps physicians:
Determine the stage of cancer.
Evaluate whether treatment is working.
Detect recurrence.
Plan surgery or additional therapies.
Monitor disease over time.
The earlier metastatic disease is identified, the sooner an individualized treatment plan can begin.
Protecting Yourself During UV Safety Month
Although imaging is valuable when cancer has spread, prevention remains the best strategy.
You can reduce your risk by:
Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.
Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Avoiding tanning beds.
Performing monthly skin self-exams.
Scheduling routine skin examinations with a dermatologist, especially if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer.
Advanced Imaging at Wisteria Imaging Institute
At Wisteria Imaging Institute, we provide high-quality outpatient imaging in a comfortable setting with convenient scheduling and fast turnaround times. Our experienced, board-certified, fellowship-trained radiologists work closely with referring physicians to provide timely, accurate interpretations that help guide patient care. We offer advanced CT, ultrasound, mammography, DEXA, and X-ray services, with same-day appointments available for many imaging studies and results often delivered within 24–48 hours.
If your physician recommends diagnostic imaging as part of your care, our team is here to provide compassionate service and high-quality imaging every step of the way.
Schedule your appointment with Wisteria Imaging Institute today.