Videodermatoscopy and total body mapping
Videodermatoscopy and dermatoscopy are examinations of skin lesions, including pigmented lesions, commonly known as moles. These are the safest and most accurate diagnostic skin examinations; they are painless and take just a few minutes, enabling the detection of conditions such as melanoma (skin cancer) at an early stage.
What does the videodermatoscopy involve?
Before the examination, the doctor conducts an interview, during which they ask whether you are concerned about any skin lesions, and whether you are in a group at increased risk of developing skin melanoma (e.g. a family history of melanoma, use of sunbeds, sunburn).
Next, the doctor examines any worrying discolouration or moles under high magnification using a videodermatoscope, which looks like a flashlight with a magnifying glass. This device provides a magnification of several dozen times, whilst the built-in side lighting also allows for a ‘three-dimensional view’ of the skin. The images obtained can be easily stored and used to carry out comparative examinations over the years.
Why is mole examination important?
The aim of dermatoscopy and videodermatoscopy is to distinguish between malignant and benign lesions, and to determine whether a particular mole requires surgical removal. Every person should undergo a dermatoscopic examination once a year, preferably in autumn or winter.
Regular check-ups are particularly recommended for people who are exposed to frequent sun exposure and who tend to develop new moles. Those who have developed a new mole that is growing rapidly, flaking, bleeding, itching, has irregular edges, an uneven colour and is changing rapidly should see a dermatologist for a dermatoscope examination as soon as possible.
Videodermatoscopy is a highly effective and non-invasive diagnostic method, offering up to a 95% chance of early detection of malignant melanoma.
Duration
20–30 minutes
Results
Instant results
Anaesthesia
Anaesthesia is not required
Time off work
Time off work is not required
Activity
You can use the gym, swimming pool or sauna with no limitations
Indications:
- a tendency for pigmentary changes to occur
- melanoma in the family history
- frequent exposure to the sun
Contraindications:
- none
I'm not sure what to choose – but I know what concerns me
We answer your questions
Any worrying changes to the skin require prompt dermatological diagnosis. Do not ignore changes such as new moles, discolouration or changes in the appearance of existing skin lesions.
At Medistica, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of skin lesions using state-of-the-art technology.
Regular mole checks are a key part of cancer prevention. At Medistica, we carry out professional dermatoscopic examinations and videodermatoscopy.
If a mole is causing aesthetic or medical concerns, we offer safe methods of removal.
