Trichoscopy

Trichoscopy is a non-invasive dermatoscopy technique used for the examination and diagnosis of hair and scalp conditions. It is a highly effective method for diagnosing hair diseases, allowing for the observation of hair shafts at high magnification and in detail.

Overview

Trichoscopy is performed using a handheld dermatoscope or a video-dermatoscope, which magnifies the image 10 to 70 times. It can be performed in either dry or wet mode. In the dry mode, the dermatoscope is placed directly on the scalp without any immersion fluid. In the wet mode, an immersion fluid such as alcohol, oil, water, or gel is applied to the scalp before placing the dermatoscope. The wet mode provides a clearer image of the hair shafts and scalp.

Indications

Trichoscopy is indicated for the diagnosis of various hair and scalp disorders, including:

• Alopecia
• Tinea capitis
• Trichotillomania
• Androgenetic alopecia
• Alopecia areata
• Telogen effluvium
• Scarring alopecia

Findings

Trichoscopy can reveal a variety of findings, depending on the condition being examined. These may include:

• Hair shaft abnormalities
• Hair follicle alterations
• Scalp changes
• Perifollicular changes

Limitations

While trichoscopy is a powerful tool for diagnosing hair and scalp conditions, it does have some limitations. It cannot provide information on the activity of the disease or predict the response to treatment. It also cannot differentiate between different types of scarring alopecia.

Conclusion

Trichoscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of hair and scalp disorders. It allows for the detailed examination of hair shafts and the scalp, providing valuable information for the diagnosis of various conditions. However, it does have some limitations and should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods.

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