Dermatoscopy

What is it

It is a non-invasive, professional skin examination performed with the use of a special device - a dermatoscope. The microscopic image allows for the assessment of the skin surface and allows for the verification and assessment of pigmented changes at the skin level in order to make a preliminary diagnosis. It is a particularly useful test in the diagnosis of malignant melanoma. A thorough analysis of the lesion allows you to plan the treatment, determine the type of surgery and track the progress of treatment.

Indications

Above all, disturbing symptoms related to skin lesions. Lesions that are irregular in shape and edges, uneven in color, enlarged, appear suddenly, itch, hurt, have a red border, peel or are swollen.

What is the examination about

With the help of a dermatoscope, you can see the exact structure and color of the epidermis, the dermal-epidermal border, as well as the papillary layer of the dermis. The surface of the examined skin lesion is covered with a special liquid depending on the information the doctor wants to obtain. These are: oils, gels, alcohol or water. The examination takes only a few to several minutes. It is painless and can be repeated. Dermatoscopy does not require any prior preparation. However, before the examination, the doctor conducts a detailed interview with the patient.

The course of the procedure

During the examination of skin lesions, the doctor assesses, among other things, their asymmetry, color, size, vascularity, separation from the surrounding skin, the presence of dogs and mesh, and blue-white structures.

Purpose of the examination

The most important application of dermatoscopy is the early detection of skin cancers, including malignant melanoma. Thanks to the examination, it is possible to initially distinguish this neoplasm from benign pigmented nevi.
If melanoma is suspected, it is necessary to perform a histopathological examination.
In addition, dermatoscopy is used to diagnose the type of warts, hemangiomas, keratosis and inflammatory skin lesions, including the differentiation of fungal and parasitic infections.

Contraindications

There are no contraindications for performing a dermatoscopic examination. It can be performed on any person, regardless of their health condition or medications. The test is safe for pregnant women.