FotoFinder® is a digital mole mapping system that takes high-resolution digital photographs and uses sophisticated software to monitor your moles and also a safe, non-invasive way of skin cancer prevention. It compares a series of photographs to your baseline photos allowing for the early detection of new or changing moles.
Melanoma is a skin cancer that commonly develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin or pigment for the skin, hair and eyes. Melanocytes also form moles, and while most moles do not become melanoma they are also the most commonplace for melanoma to form. If a mole is changing it could be a sign of melanoma. Early detection of melanoma is very important as it has a cure rate of over 95% when found in its early stage. According to the Melanoma Research Foundation, every eight minutes someone in the U.S. will be diagnosed with melanoma. In the U.S. every hour someone dies of melanoma.
Candidate for digital mole mapping
- Multiple moles on your body
- A history of melanoma in your family
- A previous melanoma diagnosis
- A previous diagnosis of dysplastic moles
- Large and/or oddly shaped moles
- Noticeably changing moles
- A history of severe, blistering sunburns during childhood or adolescence
- A history of tanning bed use
- Very light skin/pale complexion
How to prepare yourself for Fotofinder® digital mole mapping?
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take off.
- Wear as little jewelry as possible. (Remove watches, bracelets, necklaces, chains, earrings and piercings, etc.)
- Please do not wear make-up, lipstick, eyeliner, or nail polish.
- Do not use self-tanning products in the week prior.
- If you have long hair, please wear your hair up during the photography.
- For men with a significant amount of body hair in areas such as the chest, abdomen, back, arms or legs, we recommend this area to be trimmed or shaven so that the moles can be visualized.
- Areas covered by undergarments will not be monitored by digital mole mapping.
How often should digital mole mapping be performed?
Digital mole mapping should be performed every 6 to 12 months as recommended by your dermatologist.
Do I still need to get full body skin exams with my dermatologist if I do digital mole mapping?
Digital mole mapping with FotoFinder® Bodystudio is only an aid for your dermatologist. You will still need to get full body skin exams as recommended by your doctor. Although the digital mole mapping is very helpful, the software may not detect all new or changing lesions. Full body skin exams by your dermatologist are very important and they are not replaced by digital mole mapping.
How do I schedule an appointment for my first baseline digital mole mapping?
The first baseline digital mole mapping will occur after a full body skin exam and only if your dermatologist has determined you are a good candidate and has identified any moles that need further review.
Get a Skin Cancer Screening at Katu Dermatology
Katu Dermatology offers comprehensive skin cancer examinations. Let our certified dermatologists examine your skin for any marks that have an unusual size, color, or texture. Book an appointment with us today.
