Mole dermatoscopy, epiluminescence microscopy
DERMATOSCOPY
How are moles and pigment formations examined in the GK clinic?
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.
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 | 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 | Dermatoscopic view |
EPILUMINESCENCE MICROSCOPY
Epiluminescence microscopy – is just an another name for 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 | 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.
Sign up for a consultation.Please fill out the form.
Please fill out the registration form and we will contact you within 24 hours and arrange a convenient visit time for you.