Dermoscopy is performed with a handheld instrument called a dermatoscope. It is a noninvasive powerful tool used in the screening and detection of skin cancer.

Dermoscopy is mainly used to evaluate pigmented lesions in order to distinguish malignant skin lesions. These lesions can be melanoma, pigmented BCC from benign melanocytic naevi, and seborrheic keratosis.

Several studies have demonstrated that dermoscopy is useful in the identification of melanoma when used by experts. It may be up to 35% more accurate than clinical diagnosis. In addition, it may reduce the number of benign lesions excised.

Dermoscopy has also been proven beneficial in diagnosing and managing a myriad of other skin disorders ranging from inflammatory conditions, hair diseases, to infestations.

At Aspen Medical Center we perform full skin cancer screening exams. We are committed to detecting skin cancer at the earliest possible stage while avoiding unnecessary biopsies.

Our dermoscopy specialist, Gina Ortiz, PAC, MPAS, attended the American Dermoscopy Meeting in Big Sky, Montana during 2018. In addition to further training at the UNM Skin Cancer Center.

Gina will continue to refine her skills by attending the American Dermoscopy meeting this July in Colorado Springs.