The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) has introduced a new Full Body Mole Mapping clinic aimed at improving early detection of skin cancer in individuals at higher risk. The clinic, which welcomed its first patient last month, is the first of its kind in the East Anglian region.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Although it can be serious, early diagnosis often leads to effective treatment. The new clinic uses the advanced FotoFinder® ATBM Master imaging system, which captures high-quality photographs of the skin and individual moles. This technology enables clinicians to monitor changes in skin lesions over time with greater precision.
Currently, the system is being piloted by Dr. Boyana Pedersen, the local skin MDT Lead Clinician, with support from Skin Cancer Specialist Nurse Laura Shaw. Dr. Simina Stefanescu, Clinical Lead for Dermatology at QEH, emphasized the clinic’s value: “This new clinic offers a detailed way of monitoring high-risk patients who face an increased danger of melanoma. By comparing images over time, we can detect small changes early and make more informed treatment decisions.”
Dr. Pedersen added that the technology allows for capturing comprehensive images of the whole body’s lesions alongside detailed dermoscopy pictures of suspicious moles. This consistent monitoring helps healthcare providers identify potentially dangerous lesions early enough for surgical treatment.
Nurse Specialist Laura Shaw highlighted the clinic’s educational benefits, stating, “It is a great tool for both patients and health professionals. It enhances our understanding of early melanoma detection and provides reassurance to high-risk patients.”
The service targets patients already under the Dermatology team’s care who meet specific medical criteria for close monitoring due to their elevated risk. Rebecca Martin, Medical Director at QEH, noted the importance of early intervention: “We know how critical early detection is for skin cancer. This service gives our patients access to the latest technology, enabling us to monitor their skin more closely and respond quickly when necessary.”
The introduction of Full Body Mole Mapping at QEH is part of the hospital’s broader commitment to advancing cancer care and leveraging technology to support earlier diagnosis and better patient outcomes.
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