For patients with complex histories — multiple prior skin cancers, a recurrent tumor that has been treated more than once, pathology read at an outside institution, or a treatment course that has produced confusing results — a careful review of the existing medical record often provides more clarity than another clinical examination alone.
Medical record review is expert analysis of the documentation that already exists: pathology reports, slides (reviewed by dermatopathology contacts when requested), operative reports, prior treatment notes, and clinical photographs. The goal is to understand what was found, what was done, whether what was done was appropriate, and what the records suggest about next steps.
This service is also useful for patients who received a diagnosis from a non-dermatologist — a primary care physician or general surgeon who biopsied a lesion — and want expert review of the pathology before proceeding with treatment.
What records are most useful
The pathology report is the most important document — specifically the full report, not just the diagnostic line at the end. The microscopic description, margin assessment, tumor subtype and differentiation grade, and the presence or absence of features like perineural invasion or lymphovascular invasion determine treatment approach in ways that a summary diagnosis doesn’t capture.
Operative reports from prior procedures — particularly if a cancer was treated and has now recurred — provide essential information about what was removed, what margins were obtained, and whether the reconstruction affected the tissue available for further surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Can records be submitted remotely?
Yes. Records can be submitted electronically or by mail. We review them and provide a written summary of findings and recommendations. For situations that require direct examination in addition to record review, we’ll be clear about that.
Do I need to be a current patient?
No. Record review is available to new patients seeking expert input on an existing situation.