Indications for a specific type of dermoscopy are determined during the consultation after medical history taking and an initial skin examination
The choice of method depends on
• the number of skin lesions
• their clinical and visual characteristics
• individual melanoma risk
• the patient’s symptoms and request
Selective digital dermoscopy (visual skin examination + dermoscopy of atypical lesions)
• A visual examination of the entire skin surface is performed
• Dermoscopy is used selectively — only for lesions that
– appear atypical
– differ noticeably from the rest
– raise clinical concern or cause anxiety for the patient
In this format, a detailed examination of hard-to-reach anatomical areas and dermoscopic assessment of every single lesion are not performed
Total body digital dermoscopy (with skin mapping)
• A complete examination of the entire skin surface is performed, including hard-to-reach areas
• Every skin lesion is examined dermoscopically, without exceptions
• Clinically significant lesions
– are stored as dermoscopic photographs
– and/or recorded on an electronic body map with indication of location and size
• This method provides comprehensive long-term monitoring of the entire skin, allowing objective comparison during follow-up examinations
