Mole Mapping
Mole mapping is a method used to track changes in skin spots over time. It is also known as total body photography or automated body mapping. The method uses high-resolution imaging.
It is very helpful for recognizing early signs of cancerous changes happening in moles. Mole mapping helps to detect new melanomas and atypical moles that would otherwise be difficult to diagnose
How Does Mole Mapping Work?
Numerous high-resolution photographs will be taken during the session. They will be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist for early signs of cancer.
Who Will Benefit From Mole Mapping?
While everybody can have mole mapping done, it is specifically useful for those who:
- Have numerous moles (over 50)
- Have atypical moles
- Have numerous moles in areas that are difficult to reach (e.g., on the back or lower legs).
- Have a light skin phototype with numerous freckles and sunspots.
- Have a history of sunburns.
- Have a personal or family history of melanoma in the past.
- Mole mapping can be useful in tracking specific moles. This is especially helpful when a biopsy is not desirable on the day of the visit.
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What Are the Benefits of Mole Mapping?
What Are the Disadvantages of Mole Mapping?
How is Mole Mapping Performed?
There is no direct contact with your skin during photography. After that, Dr. Kazlouskaya will examine the images on a computer screen and additionally examine moles clinically.
No specific preparation for mole mapping is needed.
Do not use any self-tanning lotions or concealers before mole mapping. This could interfere with the photography process.
You will be asked to fully undress, leaving just your underwear. Mole mapping takes only a few minutes. You will be asked to turn, and photographs will be taken in different positions (a total of 6 positions).
If you have a lot of body hair, it is recommended to shave in order to facilitate the examination of moles
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a suspicious mole is found during mole mapping?
It can be taken care of on the same day! A shave biopsy of a suspicious mole is included in the mole mapping. There is an additional fee for the pathology lab and slide evaluation.
What system do you use for mole mapping?
In our office, we use the FotoFinder total body imaging system (ATBM) made in Germany. This newly updated system features high-resolution, polarized, and raw-processed photos, as well as powerful image processing. This system has the benefit of allowing for quality pictures to be taken from 1.6 meters away from the patient. This ensures a safe hygiene distance can be maintained.
The ability to view all moles on one computer screen as a mosaic is beneficial. This helps the dermatologist spot moles that stand out from the rest, known as “ugly duck” moles.
How often should I get mole mapping done?
The frequency of mole mapping depends on your individual risk factors for melanoma. If you have had skin cancer in the past, you should consider having a mole mapping procedure more often. This could be beneficial for you.
If you have fewer risk factors, once a year may be sufficient. Dr. Kazlouskaya can help determine the best frequency of mole mapping for you.
Is mole mapping covered by my insurance?
Reimbursement for total body photography is a difficult subject. Insurance plans may cover the cost of total body photography for certain patients. These include those with multiple dysplastic nevi or a personal or familial history of melanoma. However, many insurance companies do not cover it.
Upon request, we may submit paperwork for insurance reimbursement. However, we cannot guarantee that the insurance will cover the cost. All patients are asked to pay for the procedure on the day of the procedure.
How long does the mole mapping procedure take?
The mole mapping procedure takes between 30 and 60 minutes. This includes
both the photography session and the examination.
Mole mapping vs. skin check: what's the difference?
A skin check is a regular procedure. During this check, a dermatologist looks at your skin with a dermatoscope. This tool makes moles and other spots appear larger.
These quick exams usually take only 10 to 15 minutes. They are good for finding suspicious spots, but they often do not include digital imaging. Without stored images, it can be hard to track mole changes or find new spots during future visits. This makes it difficult to notice small differences or patterns over time.
Mole mapping, or total body photography, provides a better and more accurate way to check skin health. This process involves total body photography, capturing high-resolution images of your entire skin.
These images are saved and compared over time. This helps track changes in moles, find new spots, and watch your skin for early signs of melanoma or other skin cancers. With a dermatologist present to evaluate the images immediately, mole mapping provides a comprehensive, reliable way to manage skin health.
How accurate is mole mapping?
Mole map is highly accurate for monitoring skin health, thanks to its advanced technology. High-resolution images of your whole body are taken. These images store exact details about the size, shape, and position of each mole.
We compare these images during the next visits. This makes it easy to spot even small changes. It also helps identify new areas that may show a risk of skin cancer, like melanoma.
Mole mapping uses digital imaging to create a permanent record, ensuring no details are missed. This method allows dermatologists to track mole evolution with exceptional precision, supporting early detection and timely intervention.
Can mole mapping detect melanoma early?
Yes, mole mapping is an effective tool for early melanoma detection. By combining advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology with expert dermatological evaluation, mole mapping can identify subtle changes in moles and detect new lesions at their earliest stages.
This combination of cutting-edge technology and professional expertise allows mole mapping to detect melanoma early, when it is most treatable, making it an essential part of proactive skin cancer prevention.
Is total body photography safe?
Yes, total body photography is completely safe and poses no risks to your health. The procedure involves using high-resolution cameras to capture detailed images of your skin, without any radiation or invasive techniques. It’s a non-contact and painless process designed to effectively monitor moles and track changes over time.
What should I do to prepare for a mole mapping session?
Preparing for a mole mapping session is simple and requires little effort. There’s generally no special preparation needed. If you have a lot of body hair that might cover moles, think about shaving or trimming those areas first. This will help ensure clear visibility for the high-resolution imaging.
Do not use lotions, oils, or makeup on the day of the session. These products can affect the quality of the photographs.
How are mole mapping images stored?
Authorized medical personnel securely store mole mapping images on an encrypted drive that only they can access. This ensures your privacy is fully protected while maintaining the integrity of your medical records.
Is mole mapping suitable for children?
Mole mapping is usually safe and effective for children. However, it is rarely needed because melanoma in children is very uncommon. It may be considered for children with many moles, a history of several biopsies, or high-risk factors. These factors include a family history of melanoma or genetic conditions that increase skin cancer risk.
Typically, mole mapping is recommended after the age of 15. For younger children, regular skin checks by a dermatologist may be sufficient unless there are specific concerns. Always consult with a dermatologist to determine the best monitoring approach for your child’s skin health.
Are there any privacy concerns with total body photography?
No, there are no privacy concerns with total body photography. We prioritize your confidentiality by booking individual appointment times and ensuring that your session is private and uninterrupted.
If you have any specific privacy concerns or would like extra security during your session, feel free to let us know. We are committed to making sure you feel comfortable and confident with every step of the process.
Can mole mapping help avoid unnecessary biopsies?
Yes, mole mapping can help avoid unnecessary biopsies by providing a clear, detailed record of your moles over time. If you are frequently undergoing skin checks and biopsies, it could indicate the presence of atypical or dysplastic moles. While these moles may appear concerning, they are not necessarily harmful. They often have irregular features that make them look suspicious even to experienced dermatologists.
Mole mapping helps dermatologists keep an eye on moles over time. They use high-resolution images to track changes in size, shape, or color. For moles in sensitive areas, watching their changes can be enough for monitoring.
You may not need a biopsy right away. This approach reduces the number of unnecessary procedures while ensuring that any potentially concerning changes are identified early.
Is mole mapping worth it?
The value of mole mapping is different for everyone. For many, it provides important peace of mind.
This is especially true for those with specific concerns. If you have many moles, a history of skin cancer, or a higher risk for melanoma, mole mapping can be very helpful. It allows you to monitor your skin over time.
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