Enhancing skin self-examination with imaging: evaluation of a mole-mapping program.
BACKGROUND
To enhance early detection of melanoma with thorough skin self-examination, we have enrolled patients in a mole-mapping program that uses digital imaging of the skin.


OBJECTIVE
The goal of our study was to evaluate the impact of participation in the mole-mapping program on performance of thorough skin self-examination.


METHODS
The study was carried out by telephone survey of 64 program participants, using self-report to assess impact.


RESULTS
Participants were generally satisfied and found the program useful and effective; 97% would recommend it. Almost half (45%) of those who were not performing thorough skin self-examination before participation reported performing it after receiving their images. After participation, a partner such as a spouse or friend was more commonly assisting in these examinations. We also noted a correlation (of borderline statistical significance) between sun protection and performance of self-examination, and differences among different definitions of thorough skin self-examination.


CONCLUSIONS
Interventions centered around imaging have the potential to substantially enhance and encourage the performance of thorough skin self-examination for the early detection of melanoma.
Weinstock
M A
MA
Department of Dermatology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA. maw@brown.edu
Nguyen
F Q
FQ
Martin
R A
RA
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008545:Melanoma / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008548:Melanosis / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010781:Photography; D016353:Self-Examination / Q000379:methods; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*