Question 1

What is the process for mole mapping?

Accepted Answer

Prior to your assessment by the physician, a nurse will use the ATBM by FotoFinder to complete a full-body series of digital photographs, mapping each skin lesion. 
Following this, the physician will review the images and complete a full-body skin exam, evaluating any necessary lesions with the handheld dermatoscope for magnified images.
If any concerning lesions are identified, the physician will perform a biopsy or excision as required.
You will then be booked for a follow-up exam in 6-12 months for repeat images, so that we can use the AI-enhanced software to compare all lesions to the prior images to easily identify any spots that have changed or new spots that have developed since your last appointment.

Question 2

How long does the mole mapping appointment take?

Accepted Answer

The process of obtaining the photographs takes about 15 minutes and will be completed by a nurse
Depending on how many moles need closer inspection by the physician, and/or if any moles need biopsy the total appointment length can vary from about 30 minutes to 60 minutes.

Question 3

Does digital mole mapping work?

Accepted Answer

Digital mole mapping is particularly helpful in detecting melanoma (the highest risk form of skin cancer), and has been shown to be effective in early detection.
Digital mole mapping is slightly less specific for non-melanoma skin cancers (i.e. basal, squamous cell)
This is why it is important that the comprehensive skin exam be performed by the physician alongside the digital photography so that any worrisome lesions can be identified
For more information about the benefits of mole mapping see "Reference Material" in our footer

Question 4

Who should have digital mole mapping?

Accepted Answer

While almost anyone can benefit, mole mapping is especially helpful for people who:
Have a personal or family history of melanoma​
Have a history of "abnormal" or dysplastic moles
High number of moles on your body (especially if greater than 50 moles)
Big or odd appearing moles
Significant sun exposure history (bad sunburns, blistering sunburns, tanning bed use)
Fair skin or freckles

Question 5

What should I wear to the mole mapping appointment?

Accepted Answer

The FotoFinder is only able to map exposed areas of skin. Patients may choose to be totally undressed during the photographs (to ensure all areas are mapped) or can wear undergarments if they choose to. 
If you plan to wear undergarments, wear neutral colour undergarments that can stand out against the skin to help with the quality of the photographs
Avoid wearing jewelry, makeup, self-tanner, or baggy/loose fitting undergarments that will obscure areas for photography
For men with thick/long body hair, it is important to trim/shave it prior to the appointment so that the camera can capture any skin lesions accurately

Question 6

How often should mole mapping be performed?

Accepted Answer

In general, mole mapping should be performed every 12 months, but in certain high-risk patients, every 6 months may be beneficial

Question 7

What are the risks with melanoma?

Accepted Answer

Early or "stage 1" melanoma has a survival rate of about 97%, but this drops to about 20% by stage 4.
This is why it is so important to monitor your skin and catch any concerning lesions early.

Question 8

How do I book a digital mole mapping appointment?

Accepted Answer

To book an appointment phone (226) 396-1030. 
For total body mole mapping, a physician referral is not required

Question 9

Is Mole Mapping covered by OHIP?

Accepted Answer

Digital Mole Mapping is not an insured service under OHIP. 
Some benefit plans (i.e., health spending accounts) may help cover the cost of this service.

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