Mole dermatoscopy, epiluminescence microscopy

DERMATOSCOPY

How are moles and pigment formations examined in the GK clinic?

GK clinic doctors apply the combined modern investigative techniques, from classical dermatoscopy and morphological studies to the most modern digital examination ways: non-contact and contact SIAscopy.
GK Clinic was the first clinic in Lithuania and the Baltic countries, which has implemented the use of contact and non-contact, skin mole, pigmental formation and tumor SIAscopy diagnostics.

What is dermatoscopy (dermoscopy)?

Dermatoskopija a noninvasive skin testing is method that allows evaluating skin structure (color, contour, shape) and changes in it. It helps in the diagnosis of skin cancer (including the early stage of melanoma). Modern dermatoscopes are often connected to the computer, which allows to consistently evaluate pigment formations of the epidermis and dermis, and to take pictures and archive data (for further observation).

What are the advantages of dermatoscopy?

This is a noninvasive, safe, painless method that does not require special patient preparation. It allows determining changes in moles or pigment tumors and monitoring their dynamics.

mole original view Dermatoscopic view
Natural view Dermatoscopic view

 

How does the examination look like?

Dermatoscopy is a visual examination method that allows you to not only enlarge  the image of the observed area 10 times, but also to examine the pigment tumor without upper skin layer (stratum corneum). Physician specialist sees the pigmental tumors development with the naked eye, but the dermatoscope helps to evaluate the pigment tumor symmetry, consistency, color, bounds and structure.

Is it necessary to specifically prepare for this test? Can the cosmetics affect the quality of the examination?

The examination is conducted without any special preparation. Ordinary cosmetics do not affect the examination.

Natural view of mole Dermatoscopic view of mole
Natural view Dermatoscopic view

 

When do you need to examine your moles and other skin formations?

It is necessary to monitor the amount of moles and changes in them. Birthmark quantity, shape, color and contour may change, which can be atypical signs, when it is necessary to seek medical help. During the summer, when the sun is particularly intense, moles may change. Hormonal balance change (the period of adolescence, pregnancy, menopause) can affect changes in moles.

Is dermatoscopy effective?

The specificity of the method of 80%. However, there are cases when other diagnostic tools (SIAscopy, morphological examination) are required to approve the diagnosis.

natural view of mole Dermatoscopic view of mole
Natural view Dermatoscopic view

 

EPILUMINESCENCE MICROSCOPY

Epiluminescence microscopy – is just an another name for dermatoscopy.

natural vie of mole Mole Dermatoscopy
Natural view Dermatoscopic view

 

Who needs dermatoscopy and how is it performed?

This method is used for prophylaxis among patients with high risk of melanoma. During the examination, series of body surface images are taken in accordance with special standardized protocols.

natural view Dermatoscopy view of mole
Natural view Dermatoscopic view

 

Who belongs to high-risk groups? When is it necessary to check moles and other pigment skin formations?

We definitely recommend you to contact an experienced specialist when:

  • you have a large number of moles (in Central Europe> 50 moles);
  • you have dysplastic (atypical) moles;
  • You or your family member have a history of melanoma;
  • you have congenital moles, particularly in form of giant pigmental spots.

If you have any questions, please contact our GK Clinic by phone at (+370) 5 255 33 53 and arrange a private consultation.

 

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