What is mole screening?
Mole screening is used to detect abnormal moles and to screen for melanoma skin cancer. A mole scan involves a clinical examination followed by a specialised computerized photographic assessment of any suspicious moles. The system used to do this is called a Solarscan® and was pioneered in Australia. This technology is combined with a clinical examination by a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in skin cancer. This enables us to provide you with an accurate diagnosis of any skin lesions.
How does mole scanning detect abnormal moles?
The Solarscan® system uses digital technology 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 suspicious moles are then 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. It is especially useful for patients with multiple moles or a family history of melanoma.
What happens during my appointment?
We typically book a 30-minute appointment for the test. You will be asked to undress and have a brief examination by one of our specialist nursing team. Suspicious moles are then selected for analysis followed by a review by a Consultant Dermatologist.
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. Typically, we recommend an annual screening visit but individuals with multiple irregular or unstable moles may need 6-monthly assessments. We can place you on a recall system to remind you about appointments.
What happens if a mole is shown to be abnormal?
If a mole is considered abnormal by the Consultant Dermatologist, we can usually remove the mole on the same day as your appointment. The typical cost of this is £300 and includes all costs such as pathology. Results typically take 10-14 days to come through. 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, scanning and review by a Consultant Dermatologist. Additional family members and annual follow-up scans typically cost £99.
To book this screen you can purchase the mole screen through our shop by clicking the BUY NOW button at the bottom of the screen, and we will contact you to book you an appointment at a time appropriate to you.
Or
Call our customer services team on:01444 220031 or email: info@yourdocmedical.co.uk to request a Mole screen booking and we can take payments over the telephone.
