Dermoscopy: Fundamentals and Technology Advances

Dermoscopy is a noninvasive technique that allows in vivo observation of epidermal and dermal layers of the skin, identifying features that are not evident to the naked eye. Several types of devices have been developed, from handheld dermoscopes to video dermoscopes (i.e., computer-assisted digital systems). Dermoscopy has been established as a reliable noninvasive tool to help physicians in the everyday dermatological clinical practice and support diagnostic decisions. Dermoscope is nowadays largely used not only to differentiate between benign and malignant skin neoformations but also for inflammatory, autoimmune, granulomatous or infective skin conditions. Furthermore, dermoscopy is applied not only to skin examination but to adnexal structures (hairs, nails) and oral/genital mucosa as well. Finally, dermoscopy use is currently employed for monitoring the efficacy of a variety of topical and systemic treatment of different skin diseases.