Dermatoscopy: Instrumental Update

Dermatoscopy is a noninvasive technique that allows in vivo, magnified observation of skin details and structures not visible to the naked eye. It may be performed using handheld devices or computer-assisted digital systems or videodermatoscopes. The handheld dermatoscope is the most used device because it is user-friendly and relatively inexpensive. It is not a mere magnifying glass but a more complex instrument that allows the visualization of the cutaneous microstructures of the different skin layers. Videodermatoscopes are more expensive systems that allow higher magnifications and simplify the process of image viewing, storage, organization, analysis, and retrieval.