Dermatoscopic examination of skin lesions

What is dermatoscopy?

Dermatoscopy allows precise evaluation of moles, pigmented spots, and other skin changes.

During it, special device is used – dermatoscope – which helps observe skin structures invisible to naked eye, including skin pigment and blood vessels. With help of this examination, suspicious lesions can be detected early and help quickly diagnose malignant skin changes, for example, melanoma.

This procedure is especially important for people with many moles, fair skin, frequently in sun, or those whose relatives have had skin cancer.

Digital dermatoscopy system FotoFinder Medicam 1000

Extremely modern technology allowing non-invasive examination of the epidermis and superficial dermis, aiding in the diagnosis of various skin conditions (including inflammatory dermatoses like eczema or rosacea), monitoring of pigmented lesions and changed moles, or confirmation of parasitic diseases. Using this system, whole body mole map can be created in just few minutes. Additionally, it can very precisely monitor scalp structure, follicle units, and individual hairs.

This method is especially useful in diagnosing skin cancer and differentiating various tumors – both malignant and benign.

This examination provides high-quality maximum brightness and high-contrast images when observing not only skin but also evaluating nail folds, microcirculation, and microvascular disorders. Moreover, due to image magnification up to 400 times, capillary structure, blood flow, and erythrocyte circulation become visible extremely clearly.

Dermascopy examination course

• Dermatologist visually examines skin and identifies suspicious skin lesions (moles, pigmented spots, etc.). Then specific lesions are examined in detail with handheld dermatoscope – usually those that cause concern or look suspicious. Dermatologist evaluates pigmentation patterns, symmetry, borders, and colors. These signs help distinguish benign lesions from suspicious or malignant ones. If moles do not raise suspicions and detailed analysis is not needed, examination is limited to dermatoscope inspection.
• If comprehensive mole check is needed or whole body mole map is desired, FotoFinder digital dermatoscopy system is used. Skin area is scanned with Medicam 1000 video camera and skin lesions are automatically evaluated. This technology, due to various lenses and functions, can capture both microscopic and macroscopic clinical images. Camera is fully controlled by software, so uniform image quality is ensured. This is extremely effective way to monitor mole changes.
• When necessary, digital hair examination is performed with FotoFinder system, allowing evaluation of scalp structure, follicle units, and individual hairs.
• With help of FotoFinder equipment, Full HD live image is obtained with ability to optically zoom and automatically focus.
• When detecting lesions causing suspicious symptoms, whole body mole map can be created within few minutes, allowing monitoring of new lesions and changes in old ones. Depending on situation, all or individual moles are monitored.

Procedure is painless, does not require local anesthesia. On average, it lasts about 15-30 minutes, depending on number and size of lesions examined.

After dermatoscopy examination

After identifying suspicious lesions, skin biopsy or mole removal may be indicated. In some cases, lesions may be removed for aesthetic reasons or discomfort. Sometimes repeat dermatoscopic examinations after 3–12 months may be valuable to monitor lesion changes. Doctor also provides individual plan on how to monitor and care for skin lesions. Most patients after procedure can immediately return to usual activities.