What
is a TBI?
A total body
image (TBI) is created by taking a series of photographs of the
skin surface of a patient which can then be examined individually
or as a composite. It is a technique used by dermatologists that
provides them with a record of existing skin lesions and gives them
something to compare the appearance of new lesions against, rather
than just having to rely on either their own, or the memory of the
patient, as to when a mark first appeared on the skin and its subsequent
changes in size, color, etc.
The ability
to identify new marks or lesions in a timely fashion has a major
impact on the efficiency of the management of skin cancer. Through
early detection, removal of any cancerous lesions becomes much less
destructive both physically and emotionally. Advances in technology
(e.g. the use of digital cameras to produce images on a computer
screen) have greatly enhanced our ability to recognize both pre-existing
and newly emergent skin lesions by providing better image manipulation
(including magnification to greater than the human eye) and allowing
side-by-side comparisons of pictures taken over a period of time.
Who should
have a TBI done?
- Anyone with a prior history of any kind
of skin cancer, or with a family history of skin cancer can benefit
from this kind of exam as a means to identify possible cancerous
lesions at an early stage.
- Anyone in a high risk group (e.g. fair skinned
individuals who have had 2 bad sunburns before the age of 20,
individuals with a high number of existing moles) may wish to
consider having a TBI done as a preventative measure.
- If you are unsure whether a TBI would be
appropriate for you, then consult your dermatologist.
What
is the procedure?
If in consultation
with your dermatologist you decide that you are a candidate for
a TBI, then an appointment will be scheduled at a convenient time
for you. The process of taking the serial pictures of the body takes
approximately 15 minutes. You will be asked to remove your clothes (we will provide you with disposable underwear, if you wish). A series of pictures
of your body will then be taken - the imaging technician will direct you through the procedure using an intercom. To facilitate the process we ask
that ladies do not wear any makeup, and that watches and jewelry
are removed.
After the images
are taken, the dermatologist will examine you in the areas that
are hard to image such as the oral cavity and the scalp. After the appointment,
your dermatologist will review the images, and if anything is considered
to need further attention you will be notified. Your dermatologist
will recommend an appropriate time frame after which another series
of images will be taken.
For more information
on total body imaging please see information on our body
scanner.
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