Does a dermatology perform mole mapping?

Mole mapping combines a careful skin examination with photographs or digital images of selected moles, and sometimes broader body photographs. The record helps the dermatologist compare a mole's colour, shape, border, and size at later visits. Mapping does not diagnose skin cancer by itself, and it does not replace a clinician examining a new or changing spot. A suspicious lesion may need closer dermoscopic assessment, removal, or laboratory examination rather than observation alone.

Attend with clean skin where possible and avoid covering important marks with makeup or temporary body products. Wear clothing that allows the planned areas to be examined comfortably. Tell the clinic about a personal or family history of skin cancer and mention any mole that has changed, bled, crusted, itched persistently, or looks different from your other marks. Keep your own awareness routine between appointments and protect exposed skin from ultraviolet light.

Arrange prompt dermatology assessment for a mole that changes quickly, develops an irregular edge or multiple colours, repeatedly bleeds, forms a persistent crust, or becomes a new unusual mark. Do not wait for routine photography if a spot is painful, rapidly enlarging, or concerning to you. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure or for signs of a serious allergic reaction after a procedure.

Ask which body areas will be photographed, whether dermoscopy is included, how images will be stored and compared, and when a repeat examination is recommended. Ask which specific mole should be watched, what change should trigger an earlier visit, and whether any lesion needs biopsy rather than mapping.