In the context of sun exposure in the summer months, fall is an opportune time to perform a general dermoscopy. Dermoscopy has evolved significantly, and there are now various types of dermoscopy on the market that provide a detailed and accurate assessment of skin lesions.
Fotofinder is considered to be one of the most advanced and high-performance digital dermoscopy systems on the market, being a "spearhead" thanks to its innovative technologies, advanced analysis functions and the ability to monitor the skin in detail over the long term. About the main features and benefits of Fotofinderthat make it so effective and appreciated in the diagnosis and monitoring of skin cancer, Dr. Amalia Anghel, primary Dermatovenerology physician at Skinmed Clinic, Center of Excellence in Dermatology Bucharest, PhD in Medical Sciences and expert in Medical Aesthetics, tells us...
Features of Fotofinder
Total Body Mapping (whole body photography)
Fotofinder uses full-body mapping technology, taking high-resolution images of the entire body. This allows doctors to observe all skin lesions and moles and detect their long-term changes.
Automatic change tracking: The system can automatically compare images from different consultations to identify new lesions or subtle changes to existing ones.
Automated analysis with artificial intelligence (AI) - Mole Analyzer Pro
Fotofinder is equipped with artificial intelligence-based analysis software that can evaluate the characteristics of skin lesions. Mole Analyzer Pro analyzes details such as the shape, edge, color and symmetry of moles and provides an automated assessment of the risk of malignancy.
Precision comparable to dermatologistsStudies have shown that AI analysis provides very high accuracy in melanoma detection, comparable to that of human experts.
Digital Dermatoscopy in detail
High-resolution dermoscopic images: Fotofinder enables clear, highly detailed dermatoscopic images of skin lesions, which can be further analyzed by the dermatologist or artificial intelligence system.
Polarization and non-polarization: The system allows you to switch between polarized and non-polarized illumination modes to get a complete picture of the skin's structure, both on the surface and in depth.
Automated Total Body Dermoscopy
Fotofinder has a module that can automatically capture dermoscopic images of all moles on the body and analyze them using AI. This feature is extremely useful for patients with many moles (multiple nevi), providing detailed and automatic monitoring of them.
Integrated teledermatology
Fotofinder allows images to be sent to dermatologists remotely, offering the possibility of teledermatoscopy. This allows patients in more remote areas to benefit from a fast and accurate diagnosis without the need to be physically present at the dermatology clinic.
Video Dermatoscopy
Real-time examination: the Fotofinder allows you to take video images of skin lesions, which is useful for observing lesions dynamically as the patient moves, or to analyze structures such as blood vessels.
Automatic detection of new lesions
The system can automatically detect new lesions between two examination sessions. This is important for early identification of lesions that may be at risk of malignant transformation.
Photofinder benefits
Accurate long-term monitoring
Thanks to the ability to save and compare images from successive consultations, Fotofinder allows accurate monitoring of any changes in moles or skin lesions over time. This is crucial for early detection of melanoma and other types of skin cancer.
Early detection of skin cancer
Combining high-resolution images with AI analysis allows early detection of suspicious changes in lesions. This can significantly improve the chances of early diagnosis and effective treatment for skin cancer patients.
Reducing the need for unnecessary biopsies
Thanks to detailed and accurate analysis, Fotofinder can reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies. The AI can differentiate between benign and suspicious lesions with high accuracy, giving doctors a clear risk assessment.
Usable for patients with multiple nevi
Patients with many moles or skin lesions are at higher risk of developing melanoma. The Fotofinder facilitates the monitoring of all these lesions, providing an organized and efficient method of detecting subtle changes that might be missed in other types of examinations.
Accessibility through teledermatology
By offering the option of teledermatoscopy, Fotofinder expands access to dermatology care for patients in remote areas or who do not have easy access to specialized clinics.
High accuracy and reduced human error
AI and advanced analysis software can reduce human error and increase diagnostic accuracy. The dermatologist can use these tools to support their own diagnosis, which greatly improves the accuracy and speed of assessment.
Video images for dynamic examination
Video dermoscopy allows further analysis of moving lesions, giving a more detailed insight into their appearance and behavior.
"The most effective types of dermatoscopy are those that combine digital technology, polarization and AI analysis, as they allow accurate and detailed monitoring of lesions over time. For complex cases, confocal microscopy can add value and total body photography combined with digital dermatoscopy is ideal for patients with many moles. The choice of the right method depends on the clinical context, accessibility and specificity of each case. Fotofinder is at the forefront of the market thanks to its combination of advanced technology, artificial intelligence, automatic monitoring and long-term image storage and comparison capability. It is particularly useful for early skin cancer detection and offers an excellent balance between accuracy, affordability and efficiency.".
When should we be concerned and consult a dermatologist?
There are several warning signs that should prompt you to see a dermatologist to check for a mole, skin lesion or other change. Here are the most important signs to look out for:
1. ABCDE rule for suspicious moles or lesions
This rule is a simple guide to spot possible signs of melanoma:
A - Asymmetry: If one half of the mole does not resemble the other. Normal moles tend to be symmetrical.
B - Irregular edges: The edges of the mole are jagged, blurred or irregular.
C - Uneven color: The presence of several colors in one mole (shades of brown, black, red, white or blue).
D - Diameter: Moles that exceed 6 mm in diameter (about the size of a pencil eraser) should be checked. However, melanomas can be even smaller, so size is not always decisive.
E - Evolution: Any change in size, shape, color or symptoms (itching, bleeding) of a mole or lesion should be evaluated by a doctor.
2. The appearance of a new mole or lesion in adulthood
If you notice new moles or skin lesions appearing on your skin after the age of 30-40, you should be careful and consult a dermatologist. Most moles appear in childhood and adolescence, so the appearance of a new one later in life may raise questions.
3. Changes in existing moles
If a mole changes color, size, shape or starts to bleed, itch, become painful or crust, a medical consultation is necessary. These may be signs of transformation into a malignant lesion.
4. Injuries that don't heal
If you have a lesion or sore on your skin that doesn't heal after 3-4 weeks, this could be a sign of skin cancer, especially if the lesion repeatedly bleeds or scabs.
5. Red or scaly lesions (actinic keratoses)
The dry, scaly lesions, which usually occur in sun-exposed areas (face, scalp, hands), may be actinic keratoses, precancerous lesions that, if left untreated, can develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
6. Lumps or growths on the skin
A firm, translucent or pearly lump or growth with small visible veins (telangiectasias) may indicate basal cell carcinoma. These growths are commonly found on the face, neck or hands.
7. Dark spots under the nails
A black or brown spot under the nail that is not the result of recent trauma (bumps, bruises) may be a sign of subungual melanoma and requires immediate evaluation.
8. Pigmented lesions on mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, genitals)
Melanoma can also occur in less common areas, such as the lining of the mouth, eyes or genitals. Any pigmented lesions in these areas should be examined by a doctor.
9. Itching, pain or tenderness in areas of skin lesions
If a mole or lesion suddenly becomes itchy, painful or tender, it's cause for concern.
10. Bleeding or suppurating injuries
A mole or other lesion that starts to bleed spontaneously, release fluid or crust repeatedly can be a sign of skin cancer.
"It is important to monitor any changes in your skin and to consult a dermatologist at the slightest sign of a change in moles or suspicious lesions. Early detection of skin cancer can make all the difference to successful treatment.", adds Dr. Amalia Anghel.
Sources: e-fem.ro | businesscenter.ro | advertising4u.ro
