The role of dermoscopy in dermato-oncological diagnostics – new trends and perspectives

Abstract

Medical history and clinical examination are the most basic elements of medical diagnostics. Clinical examination in the context of dermatology should be combined with the taking and archiving of clinical, dermoscopic and/or video der­moscopic photographs. Dermoscopy is a non-invasive examination and is the recommended method of examining skin lesions. It requires many years of experience and extensive training, and subsequently can be very helpful in the diagnostic process since it allows for a more thorough examination than the unarmed eye. The diagnosis of malignant skin tumours has been significantly improved by noninvasive real-time diagnostic devices. Based on the data from the literature available, we discussed the most commonly used algorithms in the diagnostic process. It should be emphasized that a dermoscopic evaluation may facilitate the diagnosis and early treatment of micromelanoma and basal cell carcinoma. Finally, the role of dermoscopy in the follow-up procedure of oncologic patients should not be forgotten.