Comprehensive Skin and Mole Checks
Welcome to Dr. Claudia DeGiovanni’s Dermatology Clinic, where we prioritise your skin health. My clinic specialises in skin checks, and mole checks ensuring thorough and professional care. As an experienced dermatological and skin surgeon I can support you through the journey from diagnosis to successful treatment.
Who is at Higher Risk of Skin Cancer?
People at the highest risk of skin cancer typically have several risk factors. These include individuals with fair skin that burns easily, light hair (blonde or red), and light-colored eyes (blue or green), as they have less melanin, which provides some protection against UV radiation. Those with a history of excessive sun exposure or sunburns, particularly during childhood, are also at increased risk. Additionally, individuals with a family history of skin cancer, a personal history of skin cancer or precancerous lesions, and a large number of moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles are more susceptible. People with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or those with certain medical conditions, are also at higher risk. Lastly, living in sunny or high-altitude climates increases exposure to UV rays, further elevating the risk of developing skin cancer.
What is Mole Mapping?
Mole mapping is a sophisticated technique used to monitor changes in moles over time. It involves taking detailed images of your skin, that helps track any changes in size, shape, or colour of moles. This is particularly helpful in early detection of skin cancer.
Self-Check: How to Monitor Your Skin
Regular self-checks are vital in maintaining your skin health. Here are some steps you can follow to check your skin:
- Examine your body in a full-length mirror: Look at the front and back of your body, then the right and left sides with your arms raised.
- Bend elbows and look carefully at forearms, underarms, and palms: Don’t forget to check the back of your upper arms and your fingernails.
- Check the back of your legs and feet: Use a hand mirror to examine the bottoms of your feet and the back of your neck and scalp.
- Inspect your back and buttocks with a hand mirror: It’s crucial to check areas that are hard to see, so don’t skip these steps.
- Note any changes: Look for new moles or changes in existing ones, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, diameter larger than 6mm, or evolving shape/size (ABCDE, rule A – asymmetry in the mole, B – border irregularities, C colour changes or multiple colours in a mole, note that lightening of some areas is also an important change, not all melanomas are dark, D – diameter 5mm or larger and E – evolution or change in a mole).
How Dr. DeGiovanni Can Help
Dr. Claudia DeGiovanni is a highly experienced consultant dermatologist dedicated to providing expert care. Here’s how she can assist you further:
- Professional Skin Checks: Dr. Claudia conducts thorough skin examinations, identifying any potential issues early on.
- Expert Mole Checks: With years of expertise, Dr. Claudia can accurately assess your moles for any signs of abnormality or risk.
- Mole Mapping: Dr DeGiovanni can closely monitor any moles of interest with dermascopic images, providing accurate monitoring of your moles over time.
- Personalised Care: Dr. Claudia provides tailored advice and treatment plans based on your specific skin type and condition.
- Skin Surgery: Dr DeGiovanni is an experienced skin surgeon, and she can support you through the whole journey from diagnosis to successful treatment if any moles are detected that require removal.
Regular skin and mole checks are helpful for early detection and prevention of skin cancer. Book an appointment with Dr. Claudia DeGiovanni today and take the first step towards healthier skin.