Dermatoscopy (or dermoscopy ) is a non-invasive method that allows the examination of the skin thanks to a strong enlargement, also illuminating the structures placed immediately below the skin surface, otherwise not visible to the naked eye.
Thanks to this technique, the dermatologist can examine the pigmentary reticulum, the distribution of melanin and the vascularization of each suspected skin lesion, improving the ability to identify potentially risky nevi, which will be subjected to histological examination.
What is the exam?
The dermatoscope is a tool that allows the dermatologist a direct view of the skin surface. In practice, it is a sort of microscope, which rests on contact with the skin, previously sprinkled with a thin layer of solution (usually an oil or a gel). The area to be examined is illuminated, therefore, with a polarized light incorporated in the apparatus, resulting translucent and also highlighting the superficial dermis (the intermediate layer between epidermis and deep dermis).
In other cases, instead, an electronic system is used connected to a camera ( digital dermatoscope ) which allows indirect examination of suspicious lesions, which are displayed on a monitor.
