[Dermoscopy of nonneoplastic diseases in dark skin]

Dermoscopy is an important tool in general dermatology.

To show differences of light and dark skin in nonneoplastic diseases with focus on dermoscopy.

Using previously published studies, dermoscopic differences of various skin types as well as features of inflammatory diseases and pigmentary changes are illustrated.

Certain structures are more difficult to assess in dermoscopy of dark skin (e.g., vessels), while other structures (e.g., follicular openings) are more prominent.

The majority of studies on dermoscopy are from studies that predominantly included individuals with fair skin types. Further studies of individuals with skin type IV or higher are needed to improve diagnosis in these patients.