Mole mapping
The Latest Mole Mapping Technology
The microDERM professional imaging system is the first of its kind in Bloemfontein.
The Visiomed microDERM takes and stores quality macro photos.
By combining Dr. Jonita’s experience with the advanced technology of the microDerm professional imaging system the chances of diagnosing melanoma in it’s early stages is greatly increased. Mole Mapping is the most advanced melanoma surveillance programme in the world.
Mole Mapping Consultation
When you arrive for your Mole Mapping Consultation your whole body will be photographed and archived onto the Mole Map computer system. By doing a full body imaging the system is given a reference point to start from.
Irregularities on the surface of the skin are digitally photographed and placed in your personal archive with a reference to the location on your body.
Two photographs are taken of each lesion on the body. The first photograph has an extremely high resolution with dermoscopic lighting and magnification up to 30x the original size. These high resolution photographs allow the computer to keep record of the microscopic structure of the lesions.
The second photograph is taken with a high resolution, but not maginified. This shows the view that your doctor has of the lesion and helps to identify the lesion.
The doctor will record any information about the lesion, such as itchiness, changes, patient concern etc., with the image.
Every patient has their own profile. This profile records the patient’s history containing information regarding previous history of melanoma and other skin cancers, relevant clinical data and sun exposure. Using all the information in the profile a risk assessment can be performed.
After Consultation
All images and data will be analysed by Dr. Jonita and she will make a diagnosis and report back to you accordingly.
Dr. Jonita’s diagnosis and the report will provide details of your risk factors, statistical information, your risk of melanoma, moles or lesions that are to be concerned about, recommendations on how to manage these moles or lesions and any future procedures that need to be performed.
Please note: No melanoma surveillance programme is 100% accurate and therefore Mole Mapping cannot substitute for a clinical examination. It is vitally important to continue with regular skin checks, especially if you have a high risk of skin cancers.
The data collected from your Mole Mapping consultation is archived on a secure storage device and is available for future use.
Total Body or Spot check
Total Body Photography creates a complete medical record of the surface of your skin.
- You receive a head to toe skin examination
- You have digital dermoscopic and clinical photographs of each mole that is a concern
- All lesions are photographed and diagnosed
- You learn how to perform a self-examination and protect yourself from the sun
- Your records are stored and you can request them at any time
- A baseline for future follow up is created
A Spot check is a short appointment where specific lesions are assessed individually. A body shot of the area is taken. This body shot includes clinical and subsurface dermoscopic imaging. The lesions that are spot checked are reassessed and diagnosed.
Do I really need a Mole mapping consultation?
If you answer “Yes” to any of these questions, then we recommend that you have a Mole Mapping
- Do you have a mole or lesion that is changing size, shape, itching or bleeding?
- Do you have a personal history of melanoma?
- Do you have a personal history of other skin cancers?
- Do you have a family history of melanoma or other skin cancers?
- Do you have many moles?
- Do you have funny looking moles?
- Do you have fair skin or light coloured eyes?
- Did you suffer from severe sunburn during childhood or adolescence?
- Do you use a sun bed frequently?
- Do you frequently participate in outdoor activities?
What to expect
Please wear comfortable clothing that is easily removed, brief underwear and minimal make-up. We need to get a thorough record of your natural skin.
You will first have a brief interview to establish your risk. After the brief interview you will be required to remove any clothing that covers your moles and digital photographs will be taken of most of your moles.
Moles that are on the scalp or genital area are not included in the routine examination. However, you may request an examination of moles/lesions in those area’s if you have a concern. A mole on the scalp may require your hair to be shaved.
An initial consultation usually takes 30 minutes with follow-up consultations requiring approximately 15 minutes.
The findings of the Mole Mapping will be discussed with you immediately and any areas of concern will be assessed. You will be advised on the best course of action to take regarding the areas of concern. You will also receive a recommendation of how often you should have Mole Mapping. The majority of our patients are recommended to have a Mole Mapping done annually.
Rest assured..
- Mole Mapping is non-invasive and does not hurt.
- Mole Mapping is safe for pregnant women.
- You may request a copy of your images, so you can take your records with you if you leave town.
- No method of melanoma assessment is 100% accurate, but this process is one of the best available.
- Mole removal is provided if necessary.