What
is Mole Scanning?
Mole scanning is a computerised method of analysing
suspicious moles to assess the risk of skin cancer. In the past
few years there have been some excellent advances that have led
to new technology for screening patients with abnormal and atypical
moles. We have a the Solarscan system at the clinic that was pioneered
in Australia at the Sydney Melanoma Research Unit. This is the
most popular mole scanning system used in Australia and we are
one of the first clinics in the UK to provide this technology.
How does
mole scanning detect abnormal moles?
The Solarscan® system using a computerised programme to estimate
the risk of skin cancer based on the size, shape, colour, variation
in pigment distribution, and regularity of the border. Digital
images of your suspicious moles are compared to a database of
over 20,000 lesions to produce an estimated risk of melanoma.
We combine this digital assessment with a clinical examination
by one of our specialist consultant team, all of whom are experts
in the diagnosis of skin cancer. Patients therefore benefit from
review by a skin specialist and the latest technology. For patients
returning for screening, we are able to compare moles at each
visit to assess any changes.
Who
benefits from screening?
We recommend screening for anyone with multiple pigmented moles
and especially those with a family history or a personal history
of melanoma. The interval of screening varies according to the overall
appearance of your moles. Individuals with unstable naevi or multiple
irregular naevi may need a 6-monthly review. We recommend annual
screening for most individuals and can place you on a recall system.
What
happens during my appointment?
We typically book a 30-minute appointment with one of our specialist
nursing team (Carolyn Battes, Olivya Choi or Sophie Lockyer). You
will be asked to undress so that we can examine your moles and we
then scan any suspicious moles to assess any potential risk for
skin cancer (malignant melanoma). During your appointment, your
skin will also be examined by one of our skin specialists. The combined
examination using digital technology and clinical examination by
an expert skin specialist ensures that we provide the highest possible
standards of care.
What
happens if a mole is shown to be abnormal?
We can usually remove any abnormal moles on the same day of your
appointment if this is necessary. Excision of any abnormal moles
will normally cost approxiamtely £300, which includes a £110
histology fee paid to the pathologist for checking the mole. Additional
surgery may be required if the mole is shown to be a skin cancer.
If you are unable to afford the cost of surgery, we can arrange
transfer to the NHS. All of our specialist team link into local
skin cancer NHS teams.
What
does screening cost?
We charge £129 for a standard scan appointment that typically
takes 30 minutes for assessment by a nurse and scanning of any suspicious
moles. We combine this assesment with a review by a skin specialist.
Annual screening scans cost £99 for subsequent visits. We
can provide discounts if multiple family members wish to have scans.
