herbho
Worshipped Member
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- Jul 28, 2009
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I've had half a dozen different dermatologists. At every visit, the assistant handed me a gown to wear though I have no recollection about whether I was asked to remove my underwear. I probably just naturally removed it since it would be in the way of any full exam. Half of those doctors examined every inch (not just genital and anal areas, but between toes, all areas of the scalp, behind ears etc.) The other half have avoided anal or genital areas but have asked "Any other areas of concern?"
I'll admit my respect for dermatologists drops with this lack of thoroughness. If you are asked a question like this, don't be shy in saying you'd like a complete exam since you're not a doctor and don't necessarily know what to look for. Plus some areas you just can't check yourself. It's your health and your life. One buddy of mine was uncomfortable speaking up to his new doctor so the following year during his annual check up, rather than ask outright for a full exam, he found it easier to make up a story and told the doc that his friend had penile cancer and urged him not to overlook it in his exam.
There's no common denominator (age, gender) that separates the thorough doctors from the others. Fortunately my most recent doctor was amazing - patient, thorough and kind. I hope I can continue being in her care.
Good luck with your exam.
Thank you very much. I'll report in.