Skin cancer excisions and histopathology outcomes when following a contemporary population‐based cohort longitudinally with 3D total‐body photography

Abstract

Abstract Background Skin cancer represents a significant health burden across the globe and early detection is critical to improve health outcomes. Three‐dimensional (3D) total‐body photography is a new and emerging technology which can support clinicians when they monitor people's skin over time. Objectives The aim of this study was to improve our understanding of the epidemiology and natural history of melanocytic naevi in adults, and their relationship with melanoma and other skin cancers. Methods Mind Your Moles was a 3‐year prospective, population‐based cohort study which ran from December 2016 to February 2020. Participants visited the Princess Alexandra Hospital every 6 months for 3 years to undergo both a clinical skin examination and 3D total‐body photography. Results A total of 1213 skin screening imaging sessions were completed. Fifty‐six percent of participants (n = 108/193) received a referral to their own doctor for 250 lesions of concern, 101/108 (94%) for an excision/biopsy. Of those, 86 people (85%) visited their doctor and received an excision/biopsy for 138 lesions. Histopathology of these lesions found 39 non‐melanoma skin cancers (across 32 participants) and six in situ melanomas (across four participants). Conclusions 3D total‐body imaging results in diagnosis of a high number of keratinocyte cancers (KCs) and their precursors in the general population.