SIAscopy testing
What is SIAscopy?
The spectrophotometric intracutaneous analysis is currently the most accurate noninvasive method to diagnose moles and other pigment skin neoplasms. This modality helps to quickly assess the actual skin condition and the neoplasms without pain and impaired tissue integrity. During scanning, the doctors assess the neoplasms present to 2 mm deep. SIAscopy can be contact and non-contact.
APPARATUS SIAscope
The apparatus is developed by researchers of Cambridge University. The mode of action is based on the interaction between beam light waves of various length and melanin pigment, collagen and hemoglobin. It functions on deep layers of the skin with the penetration capacity of 2 mm.
SIAscope allows for a non-invasive and quick visualization of various skin neoplasms, which are translated on the display as 3D images. The image helps the specialist to assess in detail the skin neoplasm, the structure, color, and melanin and hemoglobin concentration (as evident by darker or lighter segments). Blood vessels can be fully assessed as well.
The multispectral image provides the opportunity to promptly obtain data reflecting the actual condition of any skin neoplasm.
Dermatoscopy image of the area of interest is magnified so that the specialist could easily identify any deviations.
The examination helps the doctor to make a right decision, whether to persistently monitor the neoplasm, or immediately remove it.
The equipment has a data and image storage memory option. It is convenient to follow up the dynamics of cutaneous neoplasm changes with the overlap method used to identify them.
The diagnosis of melanoma using SIAscopy methods is currently the most accurate method (accuracy more than 96%).
Which mole types must be urgently investigated?
Consult a physician immediately, if you noticed any changes in shape, size or color of the mole, if it bleeds, itches or crusts.
Is it painful?
Absolutely not!
During contact SIAscopy, the physician will carefully touch the spot examined with the apparatus for a few seconds.
During non-contact SIAscopy, an image of the area examined using a specialized digital camera will be taken.
How long does the examination last?
Scanning can take about 20 seconds or less. The entire consultation can take 10-15 minutes. Consultation time depends on the number of moles or other cutaneous neoplasms to be examined.
What happens after the examination?
During SIAscopy, the neoplasm is promptly defined for potential malignancy and threat. In case the neoplasm is dangerous and malignant, the specialist will recommend it to be removed. In our clinic, cutaneous masses are quickly and safely removed with specifically accurate and high-quality laser by Lumenis (USA/Israel) – UltraPulse Encore. Procedures are performed by our highly experienced specialists; Sergey Sarap, M.D. and Irina Maksimova, M.D.
In a number of cases, when the neoplasm is suspected, the specialist will recommend supervising them for a while. Scans obtained from your investigations will be stored in the clinic’s database, at the next examination, the doctor will be able to effectively and accurately compare the data and identify changes (if any). In identifying melanoma, you will get recommendations concerning treatment and will be referred to a specialist in a state medical institution.
If required, at extra charge, scans may be recorded on CD for the patient and the family doctor.
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is the most dangerous malignant type of skin cancer. It can be very aggressive, spread rapidly and be really life-threatening. Sometimes even minor mole changes may prompt early diagnosis of cancer; therefore the early identification of changes is a key factor. Early diagnosis improves prognosis and outcomes.
How can I reduce the risk of skin cancer?
The following recommendations may be helpful:
- Try not to be in the sunshine, and not to sunbathe at daytime (between 11.00 am and 03 p.m.), when sunbeams are the most dangerous.
- Try to avoid sun burns of skin.
- Protect children from sun burns.
- Do not forget about UV filter sun products with SPF protection not less than15 and use them regularly as you stay in the sunshine.
Why is it better to consult a specialist who performs SIAscopy?
During SIAscopy, the doctor obtains scans of the moles and performs 5 images for each mole, and then the skin structure 2 mm deep is analyzed. Thus, the neoplasm is assessed more accurately compared to the naked eye of even a well-experienced specialist. The specialist can assess the signs of mole or other neoplasm malignancy including blood supply disorder, collagen structure abnormality, melanin count within in the neoplasm, and the presence of intradermal melanin.
Remember that the diagnosis of cutaneous neoplasms is the best way to prevent a serious disorder. Seek timely the doctor’s advice who will determine the investigation you require.