Dermoscopy

Dermoscopy – Procedures For Diagnosing Skin Disorders

Dermoscopy is a noninvasive method that allows the in vivo evaluation of colors and microstructures of the epidermis, the dermoepidermal junction, and the papillary dermis not visible to the naked eye. These structures are specifically correlated to histologic features.

In recent times, dermoscopy has been shown to be a useful tool in assisting the noninvasive diagnosis of various general dermatological disorders.

What are the Types of dermatoscopy ?

A dermatoscope is composed of a transilluminating light source and a magnifying optic (usually a 10-fold magnification). There are three main modes of dermoscopy.

Non Polarized light, Contact
Polarized light, Contact
Polarized light, Noncontact

Polarized light allows for visualization of deeper skin structures, while non-polarized light provide information about the superficial skin. Most modern dermatoscopes allow the user to toggle between the two modes, which provide complementary information.

The typical application of dermatoscopy is early detection of melanoma.Digital dermoscopy is used for monitoring skin lesions suspicious of melanoma. Digital dermoscopy images are stored and compared to images obtained during the patient’s next visit. Suspicious changes in such a lesion are an indication for excision. Skin lesions, which appear unchanged over time are considered benign.