Dermoscopy Archives – Page 4 – MoleMax Systems

Unmasking Facial Melanosis: A Prospective Clinico-Dermoscopic Study

Karen Hanni — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 02:29:39 +0000

Sheethal K Jose, Priya Sara Kuryan, Diya Katrina Koikkara, Gauri Dinesh Mahabal, Leni George, Dincy Peter C.V, Susanne A. Pulimood, Meera Thomas

Department of Dermatology Venereology and Leprosy, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
Department of Pathology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India

Abstract

Introduction: Various entities of acquired facial melanosis present with considerable clinical overlap, posing diagnostic challenges. Dermoscopy is being increasingly used in its diagnosis.

Objectives: To assess dermoscopic and clinicopathological features of facial melanosis in Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of clinical and dermoscopic features of facial melanosis—lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), pigmented contact dermatitis (PCD), and facial acanthosis nigricans (FAN)—was conducted. Melasma, periorbital hyperpigmentation, and nevus of Ota were excluded.

To read more on this article and review the results please visit Dermatology Practical & Conceptual.

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Rethinking Melanocytic Tumors: A Critical Appraisal of the WHO Classification and the Myth of Nevus-to-Melanoma Progression

molemax — Tue, 12 May 2026 00:26:00 +0000

Giuseppe Argenziano, Giulia Briatico, Eugenia Veronica Di Brizzi, Camila Scharf, Gabriella Brancaccio, Elvira Moscarella, Maria Maddalena Nicoletti, Pasquale Verolino, Aimilios Lallas, Harald Kittler

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The recent WHO classification of melanocytic tumors introduces a refined molecular and histopathological framework suggesting distinct pathways and precursor lesions for all melanoma subtypes. While conceptually appealing, its clinical applicability is increasingly questioned.

Objectives: This review critically examines the transformation theory from benign nevi to melanoma, highlighting inconsistencies between the proposed models and real-life practice.

Methods: Through illustrative cases and key epidemiological evidence, we evaluated the validity of current models proposing intermediate lesions in melanoma development.

Results: We argue that most melanomas arise de novo and that the so-called intermediate lesions, such as dysplastic nevi and atypical Spitz tumors, may mimic melanoma but are not true biological precursors.

Conclusions: We propose a simplified, clinically oriented reclassification of melanocytic lesions based on morphologic ambiguity and actual behavior, aiming to guide therapeutic decisions and reduce di-agnostic overinterpretation.

To access the full article please click here.

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Dermoscopic Features of Pigmented Bowen Disease in Phototype IV Patients

molemax — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:19:18 +0000

Gabriel Salerni, Horacio Cabo, Emilia N. Cohen-Sabban, Sonia Rodríguez-Saa, Flavia Carolina Pozzobon, Cristian Navarrete-Dechent, Ivonne Arellano-Mendoza, Virginia M. González, Renato Marchiori Bakos, Nicole Orendain, Malynahi Tapia-Juarez, Luis Morales Godinez, Diana Guerrero Hernández, Sofía Andre, Susana Puig

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Research on the dermoscopic features of pigmented Bowen disease (pBD) in individuals with phototype IV skin is limited and consists primarily of case reports or small studies.

Objectives: We sought to describe the clinical and dermoscopic characteristics of 21 cases of pBD in a skin phototype IV population.

Methods: We conducted a multicenter retrospective analysis of 21 histopathologically confirmed cases of pBD under the auspices of the Dermoscopy Chapter of the Ibero-Latin American College of Dermatology (CILAD).

Results: A total of 21 pBD cases in phototype IV patients (57% male, mean age 63.1 years) were analyzed. Lesions were most frequently located on the upper extremities and head and neck area (29% and 24%, respectively) and exhibited brown (90.5%) and pink (90.5%) coloration, with a higher prevalence of gray, black, and blue compared to lighter phototypes. Structureless areas (90.5%) and pigmented dots in a linear arrangement (71.4%) were the most frequent dermoscopic findings. Non-specific dermoscopic findings were observed in 23.8% (N=5) of cases.

Conclusion: PBD in phototype IV presents with a distinct dermoscopic pattern, including a higher proportion black and blue colors and fewer vascular structures than observed in lighter phototypes. The most prominent dermoscopic findings were structureless areas and pigmented dots, either in a central or peripheral linear arrangement; however, in a quarter of the cases, no specific clue was ob-served. These findings emphasize the need for tailored diagnostic approaches and the importance of biopsy when specific dermoscopic features are absent.

To read the full article, click here.

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DermLite Dermatoscope: Features and Clinical Uses

keshab — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:16:22 +0000

DermLite dermatoscope

DermLite dermatoscopes provide clear, high-resolution visualisation of subsurface skin structures essential for early melanoma detection and routine dermatology and skin cancer health practice. Built with precision optics, advanced LED illumination and strong digital-documentation support, they are widely used in clinics across Australia, the US, Europe and with global teledermatology environments. Their portability and optical consistency make them one of the most reliable tools in modern dermoscopy.

What is a DermLite dermatoscope?

A DermLite dermatoscope is a handheld diagnostic device designed to reveal pigment networks, vascular structures and lesion morphology that are not visible to the naked eye. Using polarised and non-polarised illumination, it removes surface glare and exposes deeper patterns crucial for clinical assessment. Its optical clarity and robust build quality support accurate and repeatable dermoscopic evaluation.

Key Features

Optics and Magnification

DermLite devices deliver distortion-free views with magnification typically ranging from 6× to 10×. Lens engineering supports consistent edge-to-edge detail, improving diagnostic accuracy during melanoma screening and lesion characterisation.

Lighting Modes

Advanced LED systems offer:
• Polarised illumination to view deeper structures
• Non-polarised light for surface texture and scale
• High-CRI LEDs for accurate colour representation

Some models provide additional modes such as UV, vascular enhancement, and pigment-specific filters for expanded diagnostic capability.

Power and Battery Performance

Available in rechargeable or replaceable battery formats, DermLite ensures reliable operation in clinics and mobile settings. Rechargeable models support high-volume workflows, while replaceable systems offer uninterrupted use in remote conditions.

Smartphone and Camera Integration

DermLite adapters allow mounting to smartphones, tablets, and DSLR cameras. This enables digital dermoscopy, teledermatology consultations and structured long-term lesion monitoring with consistent image capture.

Popular DermLite Models

DermLite GL: A compact, portable dermatoscope suitable for general screening. Its slim profile and smartphone-friendly design make it ideal for primary care and teledermatology use.

DermLite DL5: An advanced clinical model featuring polarised, non-polarised, pigment, and UV lighting modes. It is used extensively for melanoma detection and detailed lesion evaluation.

DermLite Carbon: A dual-polarisation device offering fluid-free dermoscopy. It provides high-fidelity structural detail and is preferred in dermatology practices that require consistent optical performance

DermLite DL4: An amazingly smooth, ergonomically optimised all-aluminium design that comfortably moulds to your hand with instant on/off control right at your fingertips.

Applications of DermLite Dermatoscopes

DermLite devices are used for:

• Routine mole checks and early skin cancer detection
• Monitoring pigmented lesions over time
• Melanoma risk evaluation using pattern analysis
• Vascular structure assessment
• Digital imaging workflows for teledermatology
• Comparative dermoscopy for long-term patient records

Their precision and digital compatibility make them suitable for both clinical dermatology and high-volume screening programs.

Conclusion

DermLite dermatoscopes are trusted for their optical accuracy, advanced illumination options, and strong digital-documentation capabilities. Choosing the right model depends on clinical needs, compact options for quick screenings, advanced units for melanoma detection,n and dual-polarisation systems for high-detail dermatology and skin cancer detection workflows.

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Handheld Dermatoscopes in Early Skin Cancer Detection

keshab — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:04:54 +0000

A handheld dermatoscope is a clinical imaging tool designed to reveal subsurface skin structures that cannot be seen with the naked eye. It enables precise examination of pigmentation, vascular patterns, and lesion morphology. Dermoscopy is a critical component of modern melanoma detection. Handheld devices remain essential because they offer portability, consistency, and immediate diagnostic clarity.

Handheld Dermatoscope vs Magnifying Glass

A handheld dermatoscope vs a magnifying glass comparison demonstrates a significant diagnostic gap. Magnifying glasses offer only surface-level enlargement and cannot eliminate reflections or reveal deeper structures. A dermatoscope provides polarised or non-polarised illumination, higher optical detail, and controlled visualisation of pigment networks, vessels, and lesion architecture.

For practices that still rely on basic magnifiers, transitioning to a proper dermatoscope reduces uncertainty and improves lesion assessment.

Clinical Use: Handheld Dermatoscope for Dermatology

A handheld dermatoscope for dermatology is used extensively in melanoma screening, pigmented lesion monitoring, and routine full-body skin checks.

It enables early identification of asymmetry, atypical pigmentation, and suspicious growth patterns.

Dermatologists and skin cancer practitioners also use handheld dermoscopy to decide whether a lesion requires biopsy, follow-up, or digital documentation.

Modern clinics integrate handheld Dermatoscopes with imaging platforms like MoleMax Systems to track changes over time and ensure consistent monitoring.

Technology Evolution and Device Types

Handheld dermatoscopes are available in polarised, non-polarised, and hybrid formats. Polarised light reduces surface glare and enhances visualisation of deeper pigment and vascular structures. Non-polarised dermoscopy reveals surface details and requires a contact plate with gel. Hybrid devices allow practitioners to switch instantly between modes.

Digital handheld dermatoscopes capture, transfer wirelessly, and are compatible with dermoscopy software. LED lighting, rechargeable batteries, and improved optics define the current generation of devices.

Handheld Dermatoscope Market Overview

The handheld dermatoscope market continues to expand as skin cancer rates rise globally and early detection becomes a priority. Clinics increasingly invest in portable, digital, and hybrid dermoscopy tools. Market growth is driven by increased awareness, improved technology, and broader use of dermoscopy in general practice, not just dermatology.

Manufacturers such as MoleMax contribute to market development with research-backed imaging systems and high-precision optics.

Benefits for Clinics and Practitioners

A handheld dermatoscope enhances clinical workflow by enabling rapid lesion evaluation, improved diagnostic confidence, and seamless integration with imaging and storage solutions. These devices are suitable for dermatology clinics, hospitals, primary care physicians, and skin health practitioners. They are also beneficial for teledermatology services.

Handheld dermoscopy minimises unnecessary excisions, supports accurate follow-up intervals, and strengthens patient communication through visual explanations.

Conclusion

The handheld dermatoscope remains one of the most important tools in early skin cancer detection. It outperforms magnifying tools in clarity, accuracy, and diagnostic reliability.

With advancements in optical technology and digital integration, handheld dermoscopy continues to lead the market and provide clinicians with essential capabilities for identifying melanoma and other skin conditions.

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One Clue, Two Outcomes: Benign vs Malignant Through Dermoscopy

molemax — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:35:32 +0000

Patricija Girštautė, Melita Virpšaitė, Iveta Gylienė, Jorinta Jokubaitė, Tadas Raudonis

Introduction

Pyogenic granuloma is a common benign vascular lesion that can clinically and dermoscopically imitate melanoma and other tumors [1]. In our case, pyogenic granuloma and nodular melanoma exhibited dermoscopic similarities. Some dermoscopic patterns, which include characteristics such as a yellow collarette, a reddish homogenous area, and the presence of white rail lines, can aid in diagnosing pyogenic granuloma [12]. Even though pyogenic granuloma is benign, histology is still necessary, especially in cases where vas-cular structures are present, as melanoma cannot be ruled out [1,3].

To read this article please click here.

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Improving Melanoma Screening in Primary Care: The Experience of the Association of French General Practitioners Practicing Dermoscopy

molemax — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 02:31:35 +0000

Julien Anriot, Nadia Ikhlef, Gérard Duru, Sophie Darnis, Pauline Scouarnec, Younes Tamarat, Mona Amini-Adle, Luc Thomas

ABSTRACT

Background: Melanoma constitutes an increasing global health burden. In the light of a growing shortage of dermatologists in several countries, primary care has emerged as an optimal setting for skin cancer screening. Historically, skin cancer detection in France was typically managed by dermatologists, while general practitioners (GPs) were barely involved. In 2021, the Association of French GPs Practicing Dermoscopy was created to address this gap by promoting and legitimizing dermoscopy practice among primary care physicians.

Objectives: To assess the number of melanomas detected by dermoscopy-trained GPs three years after the association’s foundation and to compare the melanomas’ histopathological characteristics to those documented in the existing literature.

Methods: A survey was shared via Google^® Forms with all the members of the association’s Facebook^® account between 26 November 2024 and 26 December 2024.

Results: A total of 85 general practitioners responded to the survey. They reported the detection of 266 melanomas, corresponding to a median of approximately 1.6 per year of dermoscopy practice (mean: 2.9). Of the detected melanomas, 39.5% (105/266) were in situ, while only 22.4% (36/161) had a Breslow thickness above 1 mm, which constitutes a substantial improvement compared to previously reported data on GP-detected melanomas.

Conclusions: Empowerment of primary care medicine through dermoscopy learning appears to be a promising way to overcome the relative shortage of diagnostic offer observed in several countries. Integrating skin cancer screening into a GP’s practice may contribute to early melanoma detection and support ongoing efforts to lower melanoma mortality.

To read the full article please click here.

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Dermoscopic Image Digital Post-Processing Perception and Use Among Members of the International Dermoscopy Society: Results of a Web-based Survey

molemax — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:48:28 +0000

Marian Voloshynovych, Paweł Pietkiewicz, Cristián Navarette-Dechent, Aimilios Lallas, John Paoli, Harald Kittler, Ashfaq A. Marghoob, Mohamad Goldust, Jacek C. Szepietowski, Iris Zalaudek, Thomas M. Beachkofsky, Caterina Longo, Cliff Rosendahl, Norbert Kiss, Giuseppe Argenziano, Mohammad Jafferany, Agnieszka Leszczyńska-Pietkiewicz, Natalia Salwowska, Nataliia Matkovska

Introduction: Speculatively, digital image post-processing (DIPP) enhances diagnostic accuracy in dermoscopy.

Objective: We aimed to investigate the advantages and limitations of DIPP, as well as its perceived reliability and safety.

Methods: In this study we investigated perception and use of DIPP among members of the International Dermoscopy Society through a web-based survey with 17 questions focusing on: (I) demographics (sex, age, nationality, specialty, professional experience in dermoscopy), (II) application of digital dermoscopy, (III) imaging devices, (IV) DIPP software usage, (V) area of DIPP application (e.g., neoplastic dermatoses or inflammoscopy), preference over manual or automatized DIPP, (VI) personally adjusted parameters, (VII) perceived reliability and safety of DIPP, and (VIII) an open comment section.

Results: A total of 360 respondents (64 countries) completed the survey. While 91.7% of respondents reported capturing dermoscopic images during examination, only 22.4% of them declared using DIPP. We have demonstrated that DIPP was used more commonly with smartphones, rather than video dermatoscopes or digital cameras and for dermoscopy of neoplastic dermatoses rather than inflammoscopy. Respondents tended to adjust image parameters manually. The perceptions of its usefulness and safety were good, even though slight variability across geographic regions was observed.

Conclusion: Given that no regulations for DIPP exist, healthcare professionals involved with dermoscopic image acquisition and archiving may require special training to responsibly implement DIPP in their practices.

To read the full article please click here.

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Standard Dermatoscope Images vs an Autonomous Total Body Photography and Dermoscopic Imaging Device

molemax — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 23:13:13 +0000

Pau Rosés-Gibert, MD^1,2,3,4; Cristina Heras, MD³; Narcis Ricart, PE⁵; et al

JAMA Dermatol. Published online April 9, 2025. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2025.0565

Key Points

Question How does an autonomous total body photographic (TBP) and dermoscopic device compare with traditional manual digital dermoscopic imaging in imaging quality?

Findings In this cohort study including 316 patients, the autonomous device achieved a mean (SD) image quality score of 9.84 (0.72), compared with 9.44 (0.85) achieved by the manual method, with 91.60% agreement in diagnostic classification and faster imaging times (570 seconds vs 606 seconds).

Meaning This cohort study found that the autonomous TBP and dermoscopic device was capable of producing high-quality images with improved efficiency, indicating its potential usefulness in dermatological practice.

To read more on this article please click here.

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Two-step-7-Pink Rule: A Practical Tool for the Dermoscopic Evaluation of Fully Amelanotic Skin Lesions

molemax — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 01:00:15 +0000

Riccardo Pampena, Stefano Migliorati1, Giovanni Paolino, Michela Lai, Nicola Lippolis, Stefania Guida, Stefania Borsari, Sebastiano Pellerone, Sofia Maria Di Ciaccio, Elvira Moscarella, Giovanni Pellacani, Giuseppe Argenziano, Caterina Longo

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The diagnosis of fully amelanotic skin tumors is difficult on clinical and dermoscopic examination.

Objectives: We sought to identify an accurate and user-friendly dermoscopic algorithm to differenti-ate between benign and malignant pink lesions.

Methods: The database of 1 referral center was retrospectively reviewed for images of non-inflammatory fully amelanotic skin lesions. Two dermatologists jointly assessed a validation set of images for dermoscopic criteria and constructed a diagnostic algorithm, the 2-step-7-pink rule (2S-7PR). Two external clinicians, with different skills in dermoscopy and blinded to the final diagno-sis, separately evaluated images from the validation test sets using the prevalent criterion method and the new 2S-7PR algorithm.

Results: A total of 763 lesions from 652 patients were included in the validation set database, of which 68.3% were malignant and 31.7% were benign. Three suspicious dermoscopic criteria were included in the first step of the 2S-7PR: polymorphous or sharply focused vessels, scales or crusts, and erosions or ulcerations; and 4 non-suspicious criteria were included in the second: white collarette, white scar-like area, vascular lacunae, and necklace pinpoint vessels. High levels of specificity and sensitivity were calculated in the validation and test phases for both the expert and non-expert eval-uators, the former achieving higher levels of both sensitivity and specificity by employing the 2S-7PR compared to the prevalent method, and the latter only improved specificity.

Conclusions: The present study showed that an algorithm focused on a few reproducible and easily recognizable criteria could improve diagnostic accuracy in the management of amelanotic lesions.

To read the full article please click here.

Click here for the supplementary material.

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