The Coleman Foundation Pigmented Lesion Center at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, is one of only 15 such programs in the United States offering in-depth diagnostic services and photodocumentation for people with benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) skin tumors. This includes suspicious moles that indicate risk for melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer.

Dermatologists, medical oncologists and surgeons examine patients for early signs of malignancy or premalignant lesions. The center also emphasizes prevention. A nurse coordinator counsels patients on signs of early mole changes, methods of skin self-examination and sun avoidance.

Moles and other suspicious lesions are photographed by a medical photographer for further comparison and for patients to use in self-examination. Care can be provided if malignancy is found.

Moles and other suspicious skin lesions are photographed by a medical photographer for center specialists to review and for patients to use in self-examination. If cancer is detected, patients are referred to other cancer specialists for comprehensive treatment.

• Mary Ellen Hand, RN, Coordinator

• Janet Wolter, MD

• William T. Leslie, MD

• Julie A. Moore, MD

• Steven D. Bines, MD

• Constantine Godellas, MD