The role of dermoscopy in the diagnosis of cutaneous tumors

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.