dermatoszkóp

A dermatoscope is a handheld device used by medical professionals to examine skin lesions. It magnifies the skin and provides improved illumination, allowing for a closer look at surface and subsurface structures that are not visible to the naked eye. The primary function of a dermatoscope is to aid in the diagnosis of skin conditions, particularly melanoma and other skin cancers, as well as benign lesions.

The device typically consists of a light source, a magnifying lens, and a clear contact plate. The light source illuminates the lesion, and the magnifying lens enlarges the image. The contact plate is usually placed directly on the skin or over a transparent immersion fluid to eliminate surface reflections and provide a clearer view of the pigmented structures within the lesion.

Dermoscopy has become an essential tool in dermatology, significantly improving the accuracy of diagnosing pigmented lesions. It allows clinicians to identify specific patterns and structures associated with malignancy, such as atypical pigment networks, streaks, and blue-white veils, which can be crucial in differentiating benign moles from potentially dangerous melanomas. Regular use of dermatoscope can lead to earlier detection and treatment of skin cancers, improving patient outcomes.