In a recent interview with the Vancouver Sun, Skin Care physician Dr. Shehla Ebrahim, who specialises in treatments relating to skin health, spoke about all things mole mapping and dermoscopy.
If you have not read part 1, please click HERE . Otherwise, keep reading to find out more about what your Mole Mapping Session will look like with Dr. Shehla Ebrahim.
A rundown of your mole mapping session
When it comes to mole mapping and skin cancer surveillance, one thing to note is not all patients need mole mapping. Mole mapping is a treatment suitable for patients who meet certain characteristics (INSERT LINK TO PART 1). Nonetheless, this is what you can expect from your appointment.
- A review of your medical history, where Dr. Shehla Ebrahim will ask questions about your medical history (including family history of melanoma), and potential risk factors that you may be exposed to.
- A naked eye exam, where Dr. Shehla Ebrahim uses her expertise to assess your moles and any obvious abnormalities.
- Assessment with Dermoscopy, where Dr. Shehla Ebrahim uses a tool that magnifies moles and allows her to differentiate between benign and suspicious lesions. This is done by assessing the colours, structures and patterns.
- Benign moles typically have normal colour, structure, and pigmentation whereas suspicious moles may have the same colours and structures, but no consistent pattern. Depending on the severity of the suspicious mole, Dr. E will use her expertise to identify if the mole should be removed or mapped.
- Mole mapping. If a patient meets multiple of the following characteristics
- A family history of melanoma
- Are older in age
- Are white (caucasian)
- Are male
- Have a fair complexion
- Experience cumulative exposure to UV radiation
- More than 50-60 moles
Dr. Shehla Ebrahim will likely recommend mole mapping as a reference point for future comparison and to detect changes in the skin over time.
Mole mapping in Vancouver, BC
If you are in Vancouver, BC and meet the guidelines listed above for increased risk of melanoma, we urge you to book an appointment with Dr. Shehla Ebrahim. She will be able to ease concerns or provide early detection of melanoma without a month-long waitlist.
Click HERE to book your consultation today!