Abstract:
Background. Cutaneous tumors have a major impact on morbidity and mortality, especially
malignant ones. Clinical diagnosis is challenging, particularly in the early stages.
Dermoscopy, a non-invasive skin examination method, significantly increases diagnostic
accuracy compared to simple clinical examination.
Objective(s). To highlight the role of dermoscopy as an essential tool in the diagnosis and
classification of cutaneous tumors, with a major impact on therapeutic decisions and patient
prognosis.
Materials and methods. The paper presents a narrative analysis of the scientific literature
on dermoscopy in the diagnosis of cutaneous tumors. Data from clinical studies, metaanalyses, and European guidelines are synthesized, highlighting the accuracy of the method
by analyzing its sensitivity and specificity in detecting various types of tumors.
Results. Dermoscopy has been shown to significantly increase the diagnostic accuracy in
differentiating between benign lesions (melanocytic nevi, dermatofibroma, seborrheic
keratosis, solar lentigo) and malignant ones (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous
cell carcinoma). By identifying specific structures such as atypical pigment network,
pseudopods, crystalline lines, blue-white veil, arborizing vessels or ulcerations, dermoscopy
allows for the selection of suspicious lesions for excision and biopsy. In addition, the regular
use of this method contributes to reducing unnecessary excisions and enables dynamic
monitoring of lesions over time.
Conclusion(s). Dermoscopy is essential for the early detection of skin tumors, improving
diagnostic accuracy and guiding the excision of suspicious lesions. Its systematic use reduces
costs and the number of unnecessary invasive procedures, while continuous training of
specialists remains a priority.
