Synopsis
Use dermatoscopy as an adjunct to history and naked-eye examination, recognise safe pattern-based principles, and refer suspicious lesions without false reassurance.
- Dermoscopy reduces surface reflection to reveal subsurface pigment and vascular structures that are not visible to the naked eye.
- Start with lesion identity, history and naked-eye morphology; dermoscopy refines probability but does not independently diagnose every lesion.
- Use a consistent algorithm within competence, looking for symmetry, colours, structures and melanoma-specific clues rather than one memorable sign.
- Clean contact equipment, avoid cross-contamination, and use non-contact technique over broken skin unless the device can be safely protected and decontaminated.
- For Dermatoscopy principles, describe what is seen before assigning a diagnosis, and record site, extent, symptoms, duration and change over time.
- A technically adequate result in Dermatoscopy principles can still be misleading when the wrong lesion, site, preparation or clinical question was selected.
Key red flags
A new or changing pigmented or non-pigmented lesion with asymmetry, ulceration, bleeding, nodularity or melanoma features needs the appropriate urgent cancer pathway regardless of a reassuring single image.
A firm growing or bleeding nodule may lack classic melanoma structures and requires urgent assessment based on history and examination.
Investigation priorities
Establish the clinical context before magnification.
Management branches
The patient is stable and the result will alter diagnosis, referral or follow-up.
- Define the question for Dermatoscopy principles, explain the process and obtain valid consent before exposing, touching, photographing or sampling skin.
- Choose representative anatomy, optimise lighting or specimen technique, and document site, morphology, symptoms and relevant previous treatment. Apply that step specifically within the dermatoscopy principles assessment and its recorded clinical context.
- Interpret the result beside the full clinical pattern, communicate uncertainty and arrange ownership of results and safety-netting. Apply that step specifically within the dermatoscopy principles assessment and its recorded clinical context.