[Ex vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy in dermatology : Techniques, indications, and perspectives]

Ex vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy is a modern diagnostic tool that enables rapid microscopic evaluation of freshly excised skin samples without tissue loss. By combining reflectance and fluorescence imaging with digital staining algorithms, the technique produces section images that closely resemble conventional hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. In dermatological practice, it is primarily used for the diagnosis and margin assessment of basal cell carcinomas. The method also shows promise for squamous cell carcinomas, its precursors, and inflammatory dermatoses. Current limitations include the assessment of pigmented lesions and the differentiation of inflammatory cell infiltrates. Future developments such as artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted image analysis or fluorescence-labeled antibodies could further expand its range of applications.