Mole Mapping & Dermoscopy

FOTOFINDER
At Delta Mole Mapping Clinic we offer mole checks with full body
photographing of your moles with novel German equipment FotoFinder ATBM (Automated total body mole mapping).

This is a German innovation in modern skin cancer surveillance and diagnosis. It is a pioneer system for Automated Total Body Mapping (sequenced photography) and a combination of total body photography and digital dermatoscopy

It involves all your moles being mapped and examined including your palms and soles. SmartMatch technology for whole body views with up to 72 megapixels. The mole analysis is of high sensitivity and specificity (your moles are analysed by specially designed computer programme). We Identify new moles and changes in previous moles if you opt to mole follow up our clinic

What is Mole Mapping?

Mole mapping is a technique which catalogues or 'maps' a person's moles (naevi).  The images taken by the mole mapping technology are then used as a key element in the individual's cancer surveillance programme.  At Delta Mole Mapping, we use the FotoFinder system and where appropriate, Digital Dermoscopic Imaging (Dermoscopy) to investigate any suspicious  moles. Results from this specialised equipment are then interpreted by a doctor who has received training in dermatology and the advanced technology in use.

DERMOSCOPY
A Dermoscope is equipment used to magnify your skin mole/s and skin bumps and  blemishes to check whether it is cancer or not. It uses a high quality lens of 10 to 14-times magnification and a lighting system, which enables visualisation of sub-surface structures, and patterns, which are usually not visible with the naked eye. Dermoscope imaging enables trained clinicians to distinguish non-cancerous from cancerous moles and blemishes. This is most helpful in the diagnosis of skin melanoma - the most serious type of skin cancer.

THE APPOINTMENT
The appointment includes an assessment of risk factors and a full photographic imaging of your moles and blemishes. Any areas or specific lesions of concern will be documented and discussed with you which then will be followed by in-depth dermoscopic check. 

PREVENTION
Part of the appointment will focus on educating you about the early warning signs of skin cancer and how to best protect your skin going forward.

SELF SURVEILLANCE
Thereare differences of opinion about the recommended frequency for self surveillance of your moles. For high risk individuals self surveillance should be undertaken at least three-monthly - or ideally monthly. Where there are few risk factors for melanoma a less frequent regime of self surveillance could be used

PROFESSIONAL SURVEILLANCE
To assess changes over time, six-monthly or annual skin cancer screeningappointments are generally recommended. You can opt to have a treatment plan at our clinic and the doctor will give specific advice about the frequency of appointments.

REFERRAL
In cases where mole removal is indicated, a referral for the procedure or further hospital investigation will be appropriate. Dr Igoche, is a  GP with Special Interest in Dermatology [GPWSI] and in that capacity will liaise with your own GP. If you are not registered with any GP, he will refer you directly to hospital services.