PROCEDURES
Mole Mapping & Skin Cancer Screening
What are mole mapping and skin cancer screening?
Mole mapping is a skin cancer screening device that helps determine whether a mole on your body is cancerous. This is done by checking for changes in the mole’s size, shape, colour and overall appearance. Moles (nevi), which are unusual growths, develop on the skin’s surface. Normally, moles, which are tiny coloured spots on the skin, are considered harmless. However, any noticeable changes are a sign you need to have your skin checked, and moles screened to check for skin cancer.
Who typically gets their moles mapped?
People at increased risk of skin cancer get their moles screened for cancer. In addition, you should receive skin cancer screening as a result of the following:
- Several moles appear on the skin
- Atypical moles
- Family history of moles and related skin cancer cases within the family
- Extremely pale skin that, when exposed to sun, burns easily
- A history of sunburn
- A compromised immune system
- Continuous exposure to the sun due to work or living circumstances
- Previous history of skin cancer
What does mole mapping entail?
Dr Ndongeni records your medical history and notes factors that may increase your likelihood of skin cancer. Afterwards, your dermatologist takes digital whole-body photographs stored on his computer system. A physical inspection of the skin may be conducted to identify suspicious lesions. A digital photo-dermoscopy utilises advanced computer software to capture and archive dermoscopy images, which are close-up photos of the skin’s surface. Your dermatologist can determine if your mole displays signs of skin cancer. As a result, Dr Ndongeni can remove the mole during the consultation or at a time most suitable for you. If your dermatologist doesn’t find any signs of skin cancer, he will schedule a repeat screening within 6-12 months from the first-mole mapping. Your previously taken digital photos will be used to determine if any changes occurred during the time or whether new lesions have developed suddenly.
The Significance of Mole Mapping
Mole mapping is an essential diagnostic process which helps detect skin cancer, particularly melanoma, as soon as possible.
A mole map consists of 28 detailed pictures that cover the entire skin’s surface. The pictures are then stored in the dermatologist’s database for future reference. Anyone can receive mole mapping. However, a mole map is most suitable for people at high risk of skin cancers, those with a family history of skin cancer. New moles can still develop in your 30s or 40s. After this, moles rarely occur and appear more suspicious than before.
