Nevus mapping
Treatment Duration
30
Suggested Sessions
2-4 times/year
What is nevus mapping?
Nevus mapping (known as moles) could be described as a medical "photographic record" of nevi in the body, which is systematically checked for possible changes that may indicate cancer.
This is a basic record of the size, location and shape of the nevi, which is used as a basis for re-examination after specific intervals to be determined by the doctor.
This is an important diagnostic "tool" in the hands of an experienced dermatologist, which can really save lives.
Skin cancer, and especially melanoma, is one of the most life-threatening cancers, but early diagnosis means a great deal of cure.
Nevus mapping is mainly for patients who are at higher risk of developing melanoma.
Who does it concern?
Nevus mapping is recommended for people at increased risk for skin cancer who may have:
- Informal nevi with unusual shape or color
- More than 50 nevi on the body
- Light skin and eyes
- Family history of melanoma
- History of severe sunburn
- Weakened immune system
Procedure
The nevus mapping process is based on taking skin photographs, which are evaluated by a dermatologist to identify unusual or uncommon nevi. The material is stored in a secure database and used for re-evaluation.
A combination of tools, most notably the dermatoscope, as well as digital cameras and special analysis software can be used in mapping.
The mapping of nevi, in addition to the possible melanoma, which he will detect in time, will also show the nevi that are benign, a fact that is good to know, but also other moles that disappear over time.
Nevus mapping is simple, safe and painless, prevents many surgical removals and saves lives!
Nevus mapping frequency
The doctor will decide the intervals at which the nevus mapping should be repeated.
In general, the recommendations of international organizations speak of frequent monitoring of 3 to 6 months for monitoring short-term changes and 6 to 12 months for monitoring long-term changes.
If a change is found in a nevus, the doctor may order a biopsy to determine if there is melanoma. An annual visit to the dermatologist for a check-up, however, is a must for everyone.
Skin cancers, unlike other cancers that grow inside the body, are visible. For this reason, tests such as nevus mapping and self-examination are very important in what we call prevention of skin cancer.
Most moles we have on our body are normal and do not pose a risk of developing melanoma!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is nevus mapping different from skin check at my dermatologist?
Mapping is a more specialized and detailed examination, through which any changes in a nevus are detected over time, while the skin test records their condition at a specific time. Both tests are, however, very useful and each has its own distinct diagnostic value.
Who is the full body mapping for?
The doctor will recommend the ideal nevus mapping for your case. In general, however, full-body mapping is recommended the first time a person undergoes the examination, as well as whether the patient has risk factors for melanoma.
Bibliography
- https://www.edae.gr/dermalogos/pos-elegchoume-tous-spilous
- https://www.karger.com/Article/Fulltext/348863
- https://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information-and-support/cancer-types/skin-cancer/melanoma/mole-mapping