Dermatological Examination with Dermoscopy
A dermatological examination with dermoscopy is a specialized consultation performed by a dermatologist using a specific instrument called a dermoscope.
Dermoscopy, also known as dermatoscopy, is a non-invasive, painless, and comfortable diagnostic procedure.
It involves microscopic examination of the skin surface using magnification and light to reveal morphological structures—primarily pigment changes—that are not visible to the naked eye. This method was originally developed three decades ago to distinguish between benign and malignant skin tumors, especially melanoma.
How Is a Dermatological Examination with Dermoscopy Performed?
Dermoscopy is a very simple and quick examination, lasting from just a few minutes to half an hour. It is carried out using a handheld device called a dermoscope, which typically resembles a magnifying glass and provides up to 10x magnification.
Types of Dermoscopy
Modern dermoscopy often uses polarized light dermoscopes, which allow examination without direct skin contact or the need for gels, mineral oils, or water.
Digital dermoscopy uses adapters that connect the dermoscope to a camera, enabling enhanced magnification and digital image storage. This allows dermatologists to track changes over time by comparing images during follow-up visits.
What Is Dermoscopy Used For?
- Early detection of melanoma and other skin cancers
- Differentiating between malignant and benign skin lesions
- Examination of skin growths like warts, seborrheic keratoses, and fibromas before removal
- Diagnosing scabies
Who Should Have a Dermatological Examination with Dermoscopy?
- People with 50 or more moles
- Individuals frequently exposed to sunlight (due to work or lifestyle)
- Those with a family history of skin cancer
- People with atypical or dysplastic moles
- Individuals over 50 years old with significant sun damage
Frequently Asked Questions
Moles that are growing rapidly, changing in shape, color, or border definition require dermoscopic evaluation. A mole that has been mechanically injured does not necessarily pose a higher risk for melanoma, but spontaneous bleeding is a strong reason to see a dermatologist immediately.
Dermoscopy helps assess the size, pigment network, and vascular structure of a lesion. The accuracy of melanoma detection with the naked eye is around 65%, whereas dermoscopy increases diagnostic accuracy to up to 95%.
No special preparation is required. However, it’s helpful to perform a self-examination of your skin and moles before your appointment to identify any concerning changes. The exam itself is completely painless.
For the general population, once a year is recommended. For individuals in higher-risk categories, every six months is advisable.
If the dermatologist suspects melanoma or another skin cancer, the lesion will need to be surgically removed and sent for histopathological analysis.
Yes. If the lesion is confirmed to be benign, it can be removed for aesthetic purposes. This is typically done using electrosurgery or radiofrequency techniques.
