Question 1

What is Skin Cancer?

Accepted Answer

Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells caused by DNA damage from ultraviolet radiation exposure, typically from sun or tanning beds. It is caused by mutations in skin cell DNA that trigger uncontrolled cell division, with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma being the three main types. The Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide) blood test is the most important test for assessing protective nutritional factors that may reduce skin cancer risk.

Question 2

What causes skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

Skin cancer is caused by DNA damage to skin cells from ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, primarily from sunlight and tanning beds. When UV rays penetrate the skin, they damage the genetic material in skin cells, causing mutations that make cells grow uncontrollably. Other contributing factors include fair skin with less protective melanin, a history of severe sunburns, excessive sun exposure over time, family history of skin cancer, weakened immune system, and exposure to certain chemicals like arsenic. People with many moles or unusual moles are also at higher risk for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Question 3

What is the best test for skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

The Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide) test is the most important blood test for assessing protective nutritional factors against skin cancer because it measures nicotinamide levels that have been proven to reduce the development of new skin cancers and precancerous actinic keratoses. While skin cancer diagnosis requires a skin biopsy performed by a dermatologist, the Vitamin B3 test helps evaluate your nutritional defense against skin cancer development. Research shows that adequate nicotinamide levels support DNA repair in sun-damaged skin cells and reduce inflammation that contributes to cancer formation. This test is valuable for people with a history of skin cancer, multiple precancerous lesions, or those at high risk who want to optimize their preventive nutrition strategy.

Question 4

When should I get tested for skin cancer risk factors?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have a history of multiple skin cancers or precancerous actinic keratoses, if you have fair skin and significant sun exposure throughout your life, if you are undergoing preventive treatment for skin cancer, or if you want to assess your nutritional protection against skin cancer development. Testing Vitamin B3 levels is particularly important if you have been advised by your dermatologist to take nicotinamide supplements for skin cancer prevention, as it helps ensure you maintain therapeutic levels. You should also consider testing if you have a weakened immune system, a family history of skin cancer, or if you have had organ transplantation, as these conditions increase skin cancer risk significantly.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

Skin cancer symptoms include a new growth or sore that does not heal within a few weeks, a spot or mole that changes in size, shape, or color, a shiny or waxy bump on the skin, a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a mole that bleeds, itches, or becomes painful. Melanoma warning signs follow the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry (one half does not match the other), Border irregularity (edges are ragged or blurred), Color variation (multiple colors within one spot), Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving (changing in size, shape, or color over time). Any persistent skin change, unusual growth, or non-healing sore should be evaluated by a dermatologist promptly, as early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes.

Question 6

Who is at risk for skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

People at highest risk for skin cancer include those with fair skin, light hair, and blue or green eyes, as they have less protective melanin. Other risk factors include a history of sunburns (especially blistering sunburns in childhood), excessive cumulative sun exposure, regular tanning bed use, living at high altitudes or in sunny climates, having many moles or atypical moles, family or personal history of skin cancer, weakened immune system (such as organ transplant recipients or those on immunosuppressive medications), occupational exposure to chemicals like arsenic or coal tar, and certain genetic conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum. Age also plays a role, as skin cancer risk increases with cumulative sun exposure over a lifetime, though melanoma is increasingly common in younger people.

Question 7

What happens if skin cancer is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If skin cancer is left untreated, it can grow deeper into the skin and surrounding tissues, causing disfigurement and requiring more extensive surgery. Basal cell carcinoma can destroy nearby skin, bone, and cartilage, particularly dangerous near the eyes, ears, and nose. Squamous cell carcinoma can spread to lymph nodes and distant organs if not treated, becoming life-threatening. Melanoma is the most dangerous type and can metastasize rapidly to vital organs like the brain, lungs, liver, and bones, becoming fatal once it spreads. Even non-melanoma skin cancers can cause significant complications including nerve damage, functional impairment, and chronic wounds. Early detection and treatment result in cure rates exceeding 95% for most skin cancers, making timely evaluation critical.

Question 8

Can skin cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Skin cancer cannot be diagnosed with a blood test. Diagnosis requires visual examination by a dermatologist and confirmation through a skin biopsy, where a tissue sample is examined under a microscope for cancer cells. However, blood tests like the Vitamin B3 test can play a supportive role by assessing nutritional factors that influence skin cancer risk and prevention. For people who already have melanoma, blood tests may be used to check for tumor markers like lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to monitor disease progression or treatment response, but these are not diagnostic tests. The gold standard for skin cancer detection remains regular full-body skin examinations by a dermatologist combined with biopsy of any suspicious lesions.

Question 9

How is skin cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Skin cancer treatment depends on the type, size, location, and depth of the cancer. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are often treated with surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery (which preserves healthy tissue while removing all cancer), curettage and electrodesiccation (scraping and burning), or cryotherapy (freezing). Topical medications like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil may be used for superficial cancers. Melanoma treatment typically involves surgical removal with wide margins, and may require sentinel lymph node biopsy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, or chemotherapy if the cancer has spread. Advanced or metastatic skin cancers may be treated with immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab or nivolumab, targeted therapies for specific mutations, or combination approaches. Nicotinamide supplementation is sometimes recommended as an adjunct preventive measure for people with a history of multiple skin cancers.

Question 10

How can I prevent skin cancer?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent skin cancer by protecting your skin from UV radiation through daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wearing protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses, seeking shade especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest, and avoiding tanning beds entirely. Perform monthly self-examinations of your skin to detect changes early, and schedule annual full-body skin checks with a dermatologist, especially if you are at high risk. Some people benefit from taking nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) supplements, which research shows can reduce the rate of new skin cancers by about 23% in high-risk individuals. Stay hydrated, eat antioxidant-rich foods, avoid sunburns at all costs, and be extra vigilant if you have fair skin, many moles, or a family history of skin cancer.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with skin cancer prevention?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches to skin cancer prevention include maintaining adequate Vitamin B3 (nicotinamide) levels through diet or supplementation, as research demonstrates it strengthens skin defenses against UV damage and reduces skin cancer development in high-risk individuals. Eating foods rich in antioxidants like berries, leafy greens, tomatoes (which contain lycopene), and green tea helps protect cells from oxidative damage. Vitamin D from safe sun exposure or supplementation supports immune function, though balance is key since excessive sun causes cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish may reduce inflammation associated with skin cancer development. However, these natural approaches should complement, not replace, proven prevention methods like sunscreen, protective clothing, and regular dermatologist visits. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplements, especially if you have a history of skin cancer.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Skin Cancer Blood Test

What is Skin Cancer?

What causes skin cancer?

What is the best test for skin cancer?

When should I get tested for skin cancer risk factors?

References

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