Mole Mapping
Mole Mapping is a specialist service offered at DermLab in Hamilton where high-resolution photographs of your moles are taken and stored securely. At each visit, your Dermatologist compares the images to look for new or changing moles. This allows for early melanoma detection, monitoring of patients with many moles, and peace of mind for high-risk patients
Why It’s Used
For patients with multiple or atypical moles
For those with a strong family or personal history of melanoma
To detect changes that might otherwise go unnoticed
To provide documentation and reassurance for ongoing skin surveillance
How It Works
Initial Session – Your moles are photographed using standardised imaging.
Dermatologist Review – Each mole is assessed with dermoscopy to check for concerning features.
Secure Storage – Your images are stored for future comparison.
Follow-up Mapping – At repeat visits, new images are compared to your baseline to detect even subtle changes.
Immediate Biopsy if Needed – If a mole looks suspicious, a biopsy can usually be performed on the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
This depends on your risk level. Some patients need yearly reviews, while others with very high risk may need checks every 6 months
-
Mole mapping is in addition to a skin check. It provides photographic monitoring for comparison over time
-
The most relevant moles are documented, along with overall body images if required. Your Dermatologist decides the best approach for you.
