Skin cancer is curable in the early stages. Finding medical professionals to monitor changes in your skin is a difficult task in the current health system of wait lists. Thanks to state-of-the-art medical technology, you now can have rapid access to skin cancer screening without the need for a referral from a physician.
How does it work?
Computerized Mole Mapping
Using a computerized mole mapping system, Ian MacPhee MD MSc PhD and his highly trained nurses are able to screen your entire skin surface for skin cancer by identifying each mole on your body and track any changes over time. The entire process takes only a few minutes of your busy day and can help save your life.
The scans are completely pain-free and safe, as no radiation is used and no injections are required. We will even show you any photos taken if you wish to see them.
After your body scan, any suspicious lesions will be scheduled for biopsy. If you have developed a cancer, we facilitate a referral to the appropriate surgeon and/or oncologist without the need for you to go to your family physician.
If you spend time in the sun or have a history of skin cancer in your family, this technology is a must for you.
What is body mapping?
Imagine your body as a landscape. Total Body Mapping using our high-tech system captures the entire skin surface within minutes. Special software allows us to obtain a full evaluation of new or changed lesions instantly during your evaluation check-up. Your data is stored securely and confidentially for future comparison with follow-up evaluations.
What is digital dermoscopy?
A dermoscope is a very specific type of microscope that allows a physician to see the structures of a mole under magnification and assists in the diagnosis of a mole. Any suspicious moles detected during our scans can be dermatoscopically documented using a highly specialized video epiluminescence microscope. The lesion may then be monitored on subsequent periodic scans or may be selected for biopsy and pathological analysis. If it is found to be cancerous, a rapid referral to a plastic or general surgeon and/or an oncologist will be done without the need to see your family physician.
Is it Effective?
Accurate and Effective Care
In terms of safety and peace of mind, the advantages of computer-based skin cancer screening are obvious. Regular check-ups allow us to maintain an overview of your existing and new moles.
Minute changes in moles are immediately evident and be diagnosed early on, leading to positive outcomes that can be life saving.
How often do I need to get a scan done?
Typically people should undergo a mole scan every 6-12 months. Sometimes, a high risk patient may opt to undergo a full scan every 3 months.
How should I prepare for my session?
We advise all patients to be prepared to disrobe fully for the scanning session, or at least wear undergarments that reveal as much skin surface as possible. Simply put, we need to be able to see the moles on your body. If you have a particular mole that is in a very hairy part of your body, we recommend you shave or wax the area prior to undergoing a scan.