Using a body map, also referred to as a mole map, is an important part of keeping accurate records and documentation of any moles or areas of skin that are inconsistent in texture or coloring from the rest of the skin. Body maps come in a wide variety of different formats from a simple outline of the human body through to more technological options such as applications for the new generation of Smartphones. These high tech versions of the traditional body map allow you to take photographs of existing moles on your initial skin survey and continue to upload photos that indicated any possible changes.1
Regardless of the type of body map that you select it is important to be consistent in how you use the map. Following a set routine each and every month or every other month that you check out your skin is essential in gaining accurate information that can be shared with your family physician or dermatologist.
According to the World Health Organization or WHO, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer sometime in their life, and one in three cancers in the world is a melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancer.2 These skin cancers start with changes in the skin’s texture, coloration or changes in existing moles or sudden appearances of new moles. Skin cancer is also commonly associated with deep sunburns or frequent tanning and exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or artificial light sources.3
Materials Needed
The materials for using a body map are simple and easy to find in most homes. You will need a hand held mirror, larger is better, as well as a full length mirror if available. A bright light that can be adjusted to shine on the skin surface as well as an overhead light is important to be able to see details on the skin on any body part.
A hairdryer can be very helpful in the examination of the scalp or you can do the procedure with wet hair that can be easily flipped up to reveal the scalp. A small gauge or ruler is essential in measuring the dimensions of moles or irregular patches on the skin. The body map itself can be easily printed out from the internet, making it easy to always use the same recording template and capture the same information.4
The Procedure
The first body mapping experience is typically the most time consuming as you are creating a baseline reading for all future comparisons. It is important to use a systematic approach to examining the skin and avoid missing any areas of the body. This includes the scalp, between the toes and the soles of the feet, the areas under your arms and the skin on your back, buttocks and behind your legs. Since these areas are hard to see without help consider asking a family member or trusted friend to provide assistance.
The basic procedure includes:
- Checking the skull from the crown through to the back of the neck. Remember to look behind the ears as well as into the outer ear.
- Work down the body examining the shoulders, chest and breast area and the abdominal area. Do the same on the shoulders and lower back.
- Check the arms, front and back, as well as the hands and the skin between the fingers. Be sure to use the mirrors to be able to see all skin surface areas.
- Sitting in a chair examine the front of the legs and the feet. This includes the soles of the feet, between the toes, and behind the knees. The backs of the legs and the buttocks can then be examined in a standing position.
During the examination be sure to note any moles, freckles, age spots or other types of irregularities on the skin’s surface. Since early signs of skin cancer can include dry, scaly patches, lumps or bumps under the skins surface or on the surface note these as well. According to the MD Anderson Cancer Center the most common locations for skin cancers, particularly melanomas, vary between men and women. Women are most often diagnosed with melanoma on the legs while men have more instances of melanoma on the chest and back.5
Number each mole or irregularity on the respective spot on the body map that corresponds to its location on your body. In the grid below describe the general shape (asymmetry) of the mole or spot, the border of the mole, the color and the diameter, which corresponds to the ABCDs of monitoring the moles. Taking a picture of the mole can also be very helpful to note any changes.
Always use a ruler or gauge beside the mole or skin patch so that changes can be measured rather than approximated or guessed. A simple option is a flexible measuring ribbon used in sewing that can be shaped to fit the contour of the skin. Using the same measuring device each time you do the examination is essential.
After the first examination you will not need to record moles or skin areas that stay the same. You will, however, record any new moles, patches or skin irregularities and any changes in those skin irregularities that were recorded previously. This information is extremely helpful to your dermatologist and can be instrumental in allowing your family doctor to make a referral to a specialist if any changes are noted.
References
1 How to examine your skin. (2011). Retrieved from American Academy of Dermatology: www.aad.org/skin-conditions/skin-cancer-detection/about-skin-self-exams
2 Effects Of UV Exposure. (2011). Retrieved from Standford Medicine Cancer Institute: cancer.stanford.edu/skincancer/skin/causes/fxuvexp.html
3 Melanoma Monday Mole Map. (n.d.). Retrieved from American Academy Of Dermatology: www.melanomamonday.org/documents/08_96 Melanoma Monday Mole Map.pdf
4 Mole Map: Connect the Spots. (2011, May). Retrieved from The University of Texas MD Anderson Skin Cancer Center: www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/issues/2011-may/moleskin.html
5 Ultraviolet radiation and the INTERSUN Programme. (2011). Retrieved from Skin Cancer: www.who.int/uv/faq/skincancer/en/index1.html
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