Dermatoscopy or dermoscopy

Over last years the increase in morbidity rate of skin cancer, including malignant melanoma, has been observed.

The basic examination which enables its detection in an early stage is dermatoscopy/ dermoscopy. It is a non-invasive, painless and easy to perform examination which definitely requires an experienced doctor.
Standardly, in case of each patient we perform a screening examination of the whole body. The usage of manual dermatoscope/ dermoscope enables quick assessment of all present marks and identification of the ones which require immediate removal or the ones which because of their atypical properties require further observation. One should remember that only dermatoscopic/ dermoscopic examination enables the identification of suspicious marks, which seem to be calm during a macroscopic examination.

In case of marks requiring further observation and people with dysplastic marks syndrome it is recommended to perform videodermoscopy. Digital record enables the assessment of marks evolution. In case of appearance of new, worrying properties it is recommended to remove them immediately.

It should be remembered that the method from choice is then an operative procedure followed by histopathological examination of the obtained material. Such dealing enables the elimination of risk that the removed change with harmless look was, however, of malignant character.

 

Indications:

Performing dermatoscopic/ dermoscopic assessment of marks is recommended in case of each patient once per 2-3 years and at least once a year in case of patients with melanocarcinoma development risk factors, i.e.:

  • presence of numerous pigmentary marks of different shapes and pigmentation (above 50)
  • presence of dysplastic marks syndrome (stated during earlier dermatoscopic/ dermoscopic examination)
  • fair complexion (bright or ginger hair, blue eyes, tendency to sunburn)
  • sustained usage of sunbathing/ solarium
  • episodes of sunburns, especially in childhood
  • occurrence of melanocarcinoma or pancreatic cancer cases in the family

As prophylaxis of skin cancer occurrence it is recommended:

  • to avoid excessive sun exposure, especially between 11am – 2pm
  • to limit visits in solarium
  • to use regularly creams with +50, +30 SPF while exposing to sun
  • to perform regular self-control and periodical dermatological examination.

It should also be stated that early diagnosis of melanocarcinoma and its surgical removal not only improves patient’s prognosis but it also gives the chance of healing in case of circa 90% of the sick.

You should remember that if you notice a mark, which in the last 3 months has changes its size or colour, it itches or bleeds, you should not liger but visit a dermatologist immediately.

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