Digital mole mapping entails capturing photographs of the patient’s entire skin surface area. A technician or nurse operates a semi-automatic device, and the patient assumes different positions in front of a camera mounted on a rail. The camera moves up and down, capturing images of the entire skin surface. These images are stitched together to create a comprehensive “map” documenting the patient’s entire skin area. A year later, the imaging process is repeated to generate an updated “map” for comparison with the previous one. By comparing the two maps, even subtle changes in the patient’s lesions can be detected, allowing for the early identification of suspicious lesions that might not be apparent during a regular mole examination. Some advanced systems even incorporate artificial intelligence technology to assist doctors in comparing the maps and identifying changing and suspicious lesions.

Digital dermoscopy is another component of mole mapping. This technique involves taking close-up images of suspicious skin lesions using a dermoscopic camera. These close-up images are revisited three to four months later and compared to the initial images. If microscopic changes are observed in the lesion, it becomes a suspicious lesion requiring a biopsy. Conversely, if the lesion remains stable, follow-up can be conducted. Digital dermoscopy helps avoid unnecessary biopsies, as lesions that appear highly suspicious during initial examination but remain stable over time are determined to be benign and can be safely monitored.