Rivers Hospital Specialists
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Dr Karen Watson
Dr Karen Watson is a Consultant Dermatologist in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire.
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Mole mapping is a screening check of your moles to detect and treat skin cancer early.
Mole mapping is a comprehensive mole check to screen for skin cancer at regular intervals. It uses advanced digital technology to map the moles on your body and record their exact size, colour and location from your head to your toes.
Mole mapping is a safe, non-invasive and straightforward procedure. Beforehand, you be asked to complete a pre-screening questionnaire to identify any risk factors for skin cancer and any areas of concern. We take digital photographs of your moles and store them on a secure computer.
The results of mole mapping:
Moles that appear unusual are photographed at high-magnification using a digital dermascope. A Consultant Dermatologist will review the photographs to identify any moles with the features of melanoma. We advise you immediately if you have any moles with suspected melanoma. The mole then may be removed and sent for a cancer biopsy test. The reports are always made communicated with your GP unless you do not wish us to do so.
In most cases, melanoma is not found. You are then offered a repeat screen in 6-12 months or sooner if you notice any mole changes in the interim. Your previously stored photographs are used at repeat screenings are a baseline to detect any new of changing lesions.
You should go for a mole check if you are at higher than average risk of, or you are concerned about skin cancer.
It is important to be familiar with your skin’s appearance. If you notice any changes in your skin that give you cause for concern, then you should get them checked straight away.
It can be very difficult to check your own moles, especially if you have lots or if you have moles in hard to see areas such as your back and shoulders. A mole check can reliably check all of your moles for peace of mind.
It is particularly important to check the moles on your skin if you have:
Mole mapping takes around 30 minutes. It depends on the areas you wish to be examined and mapped, has well as if you have any suspect moles and their numbers that require closer inspection. You will be asked to compIete a pre-screening questionnaire.
Our guide package price for a full-body screening is from £205 this includes a medical report that is sent to you and your GP.
Ramsay is recognised by all major medical insurers. Generally patients with a history of melanoma are covered by most insurance policies for skin treatments that are recommended by your doctor for medical reasons. For patients without a history of melanoma, screening is usually not covered by medical insurers. This service is therefore largely a "pay for yourself’ we do then involve insurers if a medical treatment is required.
We use the latest digital dermascope technology that can detect minor changes in the size and shape of our moles and further analyse them. Our experienced consultant dermatologists views the mole analysis images and expertly interpret these photographs.
Patients come to us for regular mole mapping for the reassurance that their moles are being professional monitored. Patients also visit us if they are worried about a mole and they would like to have it checked and either swiftly removed or closely monitored.
We have strict protocols in place to keep our patients safe during their hospital visits and to minimise any risk of infection. We also have easy access to free onsite car parking.
Dr Karen Watson
Dr Karen Watson is a Consultant Dermatologist in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire.
Read more
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Find out moreWhen a dermatological condition presents itself the safest method of treatment may involve the removal of skin for diagnosis and analysis, to remove an affected area and encourage healing or grafting of skin to facilitate natural dermal repair.
Some of us have hardly any moles whilst others have many. Moles that look abnormal may be harbouring skin cancer therefore it is important to have them checked regularly. Sudden changes in the size or shape of a mole should be reported to your Consultant immediately.
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