Even without any dysplastic nevi, family history increases the risk of melanoma by up to eight times. Early Detection Melanoma can be very aggressive - quickly invading deeper tissue and spreading to other parts of the body. But if the cancer is detected early enough, the treatment is often successful. In the past, doctors relied on visual inspection of the skin and biopsy of any suspicious moles. Over the last decade or so, total body photography became available.
Doctors can periodically take pictures of the whole body and compare newer photos with older ones.
The technique helps track changes in moles over time, which can be an early sign of skin cancer. Most recently, a technique called digital epiluminescence microscopy has become available in a system called, MoleMax II's eyes. The technique also allows doctors to see the area just below the outer layer of skin. Using the information from the images, the MoleMax II scores the moles on a risk scale, from high to low. Moles of moderate risk are typically watched through periodic screenings, sparing the patient an unnecessary biopsy.