Dermatoscopy

Dermatoscopy (also known as dermoscopy or epiluminescence microscopy) is a non-invasive, in vivo technique primarily used for the examination of skin lesions. Its use has been proven to increase the accuracy of melanoma diagnosis.

History

The first reported use of dermatoscopy was in 1663 by Johann S. Purkinje who used a microscope to examine skin lesions. The technique has since evolved and is now widely used in the diagnosis of various skin conditions.

Technique

Dermatoscopy is performed using a handheld device known as a dermatoscope, which consists of a magnifier, a non-polarized light source, a transparent plate and a liquid medium between the instrument and the skin. The dermatoscope illuminates the skin in a way that reduces the reflection of light off the skin surface, allowing for visualization of structures in the epidermis and dermis that are not visible to the naked eye.

Applications

Dermatoscopy is primarily used for the early detection of melanoma, but it can also be used to diagnose other skin conditions such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, warts, psoriasis, and eczema. It can also be used to monitor the progress of treatment for these conditions.

Limitations

While dermatoscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of skin conditions, it does have limitations. It requires training and experience to interpret the images correctly. It is also not 100% accurate and cannot replace a biopsy for definitive diagnosis.

Future

With advancements in technology, digital dermatoscopy is becoming more common. This allows for the images to be stored and compared over time, which can be useful in monitoring the progress of skin conditions.

See also

• Melanoma
• Skin cancer
• Dermatology

References

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