Rapid Access Pigmented Lesion Clinic
Expedited | Dermoscopy | Same-Visit Biopsy
Expedited dermatological assessment of suspicious pigmented lesions for patients referred by primary care, with same-visit biopsy when clinically indicated.
Time-sensitive assessment of suspicious pigmented lesions.
A new, changing, or unusual mole is one of the most common reasons family physicians refer to dermatology, and one of the most time-sensitive.
The clinic provides expedited assessment of suspicious pigmented lesions for patients referred by primary care, keeping the full pathway, from assessment and biopsy through results and definitive management, under one physician.
Who the Clinic Is For
- New pigmented lesions in adults, particularly after age 40
- Existing moles that have changed in size, shape, colour, or symmetry
- Lesions with ABCDE warning features
- Pigmented bands within the nail (longitudinal melanonychia)
- Ugly duckling lesions that stand out from a patient's other moles
- Patients with a personal or family history of melanoma and a new lesion of concern
What the Visit Includes
- Focused history and targeted examination of the lesions of concern
- Dermoscopic evaluation of the lesions of concern
- Same-visit biopsy if the lesion is clinically suspicious, completed at the assessment visit rather than at a separate appointment
- Direct triage to surgical excision when indicated, scheduled at CMSD or referred to surgical or plastic surgery partners
- Communication of biopsy results and next steps to both the patient and the referring physician
How the Program Works
The clinic is delivered directly by Dr. Maksym Breslavets, a Royal College-certified dermatologist with more than 25 years of experience and over 3,500 personally managed skin cancer cases. Lesion assessment uses contemporary dermoscopic criteria, and the full pathway, from assessment to biopsy, results, and definitive management, remains under one physician.
Defined access pathway
Urgent pigmented-lesion concerns move on a track separate from routine referrals, so time-sensitive cases are seen without unnecessary delay.
Single-physician continuity
One dermatologist carries the case from initial suspicion through biopsy, results, and any definitive treatment that follows.
Routine dermoscopy
Dermoscopy forms a standard part of every assessment rather than an optional add-on, sharpening diagnostic accuracy.
Clear communication
The referring physician receives written updates at the assessment, biopsy-result, and definitive-management stages.
Explore More
Other Specialty Clinics
Referrals
Family physicians can request rapid access on the CMSD referral form by selecting "Query melanoma" and marking the referral URGENT, which flags it for assessment within two weeks. Including a brief clinical concern supports triaging.
Learn about the referral process
Specialized dermatologic care, coordinated by one physician
Specialty clinic care is accessed through a referral from your family physician or specialist. Assessment, treatment, and follow-up are coordinated directly with your referring provider.