Recent developments in dermoscopy for dermatology

Background: Dermoscopy is considered to be a bridge between clinical observation and histopathological examination, allowing the in vivo examination of skin microstructures that are not visible to the naked eye, from the epidermis to the superficial dermis. Dermoscopy has undergone rapid development, witnessing the history from natural light to polarized light, from handheld dermoscopy to videodermoscopy, and from classic dermoscopy to digital dermoscopy. Its application extends from the initial differential diagnosis of pigmented skin diseases (melanocytic and nonmelanocytic) to general dermatology, including appendage (nail and hair) abnormalities and diseases related to infection and inflammation.

Aims: We aimed to provide the latest developments in dermoscopy from the perspective of handheld dermoscopy, videodermoscopy, fluorescence-advanced videodermatoscopy, polarized transilluminating dermoscopy, and digital dermoscopy.

Methods: In this review, we searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases for reviews, case reports, and observational studies on dermoscopy.

Results: We provided an updated review of dermoscopy based on published literature.

Conclusion: Dermoscopy is an indispensable diagnostic tool in dermatology, and it is expected to be further developed in the future.