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What is a
Melanoscan?
A Melanoscan is
created by taking a series of photographs of the skin surface of a patient
which can then be examined individually or as a composite. It is a technique
used by dermatologists that provides them with a record of existing
skin lesions and gives them something to compare the appearance of new
lesions against, rather than just having to rely on either their own,
or the memory of the patient, as to when a mark first appeared on the
skin and its subsequent changes in size, color, etc.
The ability to
identify new marks or lesions in a timely fashion has a major impact
on the efficiency of the management of skin cancer. Through early detection,
removal of any cancerous lesions becomes much less destructive both
physically and emotionally. Advances in technology (e.g. the use of
digital cameras to produce images on a computer screen) have greatly
enhanced our ability to recognize both pre-existing and newly emergent
skin lesions by providing better image manipulation (including magnification
to aid the human eye) and allowing side-by-side comparisons
of pictures taken over a period of time.
Who should
have a Melanoscan?
- Anyone with a prior history of any kind of skin cancer, or with
a family history of skin cancer can benefit from this technology
as a means to identify possible cancerous lesions at an early stage.
- Anyone in a high risk group (e.g. fair skinned individuals who
have had 2 bad sunburns before the age of 20, individuals with a large
number of existing moles) may wish to consider having a Melanoscan
as a preventative measure.
- If you are unsure whether a Melanoscan would be appropriate for
you, then consult your dermatologist.
What is the
procedure?
If in consultation
with your dermatologist you decide that you are a candidate for a Melanoscan,
then an appointment will be scheduled at a convenient time for you.
The process of taking the serial pictures of the body takes approximately
15 minutes. You will be asked to disrobe (we will provide
you with disposable underwear, if you wish). A series of pictures in three choreographed positions
will then be captured in our completely private Melanoscan booth - the automated instructions
will direct you through each simple step of the procedure. To facilitate the process we
ask that ladies do not wear any makeup, any long hair is pulled up, and that watches and jewelry
are removed.
After the images
are captured, the dermatologist will examine you in the areas that are
hard to image such as the oral cavity and the scalp. After the appointment,
your dermatologist will review the images, and if anything is considered
to need further attention you will be notified. Your dermatologist will
recommend an appropriate time frame after which another series of images
will be taken.
For more information on the revolutionary
Melanoscan technology you may visit melanoscan.com
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