What is dermatoscopy?

Dermatoscopy is a skin examination technique that allows skin lesions to be evaluated under magnification of up to 10-40 times. Using a dermatoscope, the doctor can accurately view the structure of the skin, which makes it possible to differentiate benign from malignant lesions. This examination is particularly useful in the diagnosis of skin cancers, such as melanoma. 

How does the dermatoscope examination proceed?

Before the examination, the doctor takes a detailed history of the patient, gathering information on the history of skin lesions and possible risk factors. Then the dermatoscopic examination begins, during which the doctor applies a dermatoscope to the patient's skin, obtaining a magnified image of the lesions under examination. In traditional dermatoscopy, the skin is covered with a thin layer of imersion oil, which eliminates glare and allows a better assessment of the skin's structure.

Based on the images obtained, the specialist evaluates the nature of the skin lesions, identifies features that may indicate the malignant nature of the lesion and decides on further management, observation, removal of the lesion or referral for additional tests.

The duration of the test depends on the number of lesions to be examined and is usually between 15 and 60 minutes.

Who should undergo a dermatoscopy?

Dermatoscopic examination is recommended for people:

• with numerous skin nevi (more than 50),
• with the presence of atypical nevi,
• with a light skin complexion,
• frequent sun exposure or use of tanning beds,
• with cases of melanoma in the family,
• older than 40 years of age,
• with new or changing skin lesions.

Regular examination of skin nevi is the cornerstone of skin cancer prevention.

Effects of skin lesion testing

Dermatoscopy allows for:

• early detection of skin lesions of a potentially malignant nature,
• accurate assessment of the structure and color of nevi,
• Monitoring existing developments,
• Deciding on further treatment or observation.

Are there contraindications to dermatoscopy?

Dermatoscopy is a safe and non-invasive test that has no immediate contraindications. However, prior to the test, it is recommended not to use skin styling cosmetics before the test or to color the skin 2 weeks before the test.

For skin lesions with scabs, wounds or inflammation, consult
with your doctor before proceeding.

Differences between dermatoscopy and videodermatoscopy

Dermatoscopy and videodermatoscopy are two advanced diagnostic techniques used in dermatology to assess skin lesions. Although both methods aim to detect abnormalities at an early stage, they differ in terms of technology, precision, and documentation capabilities.

Dermatoscopy, also known as epiluminescence dermatoscopy, is a skin examination technique that allows for the assessment of lesions at 10 to 30 times magnification. It uses a handheld dermatoscope, an optical device with a built-in light source. Immersion oil is also often used to eliminate light reflections and allow for a better assessment of the skin structure. The examination is quick, painless, and non-invasive, and its purpose is to assess the structure and pigmentation of skin lesions.

Videodermatoscopy is an advanced developed form of dermatoscopy that introduces modern technologies into the process of diagnosing skin lesions. It uses a digital dermatoscope connected to a computer or monitor, which allows for obtaining a highly magnified image of the skin (up to 100 times) and saving it in digital form. This allows the doctor to analyze the changes more accurately, compare images from examinations performed at different times, and monitor their possible development. Wide dermatoscopy also allows the results to be archived, which facilitates later comparisons and assessment of the dynamics of changes.