“Early detection” is something I talk about a lot.  That is for good reason: skin cancer is not only the most common form of cancer in the United States, it is also the most curable – that is, IF it is detected early.  This is why I talk just as much about the importance of regular full body exams.

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so this is an especially good time to mention a powerful new early detection tool I’ve just added to my practice:  FotoFinder.  This breakthrough technology is truly one of the most impactful medical devices I have seen in my career.

FotoFinder combines the very best photographic equipment and German robotic engineering in a way that superbly augments the dermatology professional during full body exams.

Here’s how it works: The computer-controlled machine captures highly detailed photographs of the entire skin surface and merges them into a comprehensive Total Body Map.  It then employs artificial intelligence to meticulously compare current skin conditions to earlier “baseline” images.  If it “sees” new moles, or even minute changes in existing moles, it automatically flags them for detailed follow up by the professional.  The mapping and analysis process take just 20 minutes.  It is amazing technology that will greatly advance early detection of skin cancer.

When I saw this sophisticated device in action, I knew immediately I need to bring this to our patients.  The Dermatologic Surgery Center of Washington is the first and only practice in the Washington, DC region to install this significant advancement in the science of early detection.

Since we installed the system in January, I am often asked who should consider FotoFinder early detection technology?  If you can answer yes to any of these questions, I recommend we discuss if FotoFinder is right for you:

• Do you have a history of melanoma or other skin cancer?
• Do you have a family history of skin cancer?
• Do you have many moles – more than 50?
• Do you have large moles – 2 inches in diameter or larger?
• Do you see changes in a mole or have new moles?
• Do you have a history of a severe, blistering sunburn as a child or adolescent?
• Do you have very light skin?
• Are you exposed to strong sunlight on a regular basis?

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to make an appointment with one of our talented dermatology professionals for your next full body exam – and create your baseline Total Body Map with FotoFinder.

Click here to make an appointment online or call us at 301-652-8081.

 

All the photos used are courtesy: FotoFinder Systems, Inc.