Why is a dermatoscope used in skin cancer screening?

Normal surface reflection can hide details of a mole or other lesion. Magnification and specialised light make patterns such as uneven pigment, dots, globules, or visible vessels easier to inspect. The clinician considers these findings alongside the mark’s history, location, and changes over time.

A screening examination is not the same as a confirmed diagnosis. If a mark appears concerning, the next step may be a planned review, photography for comparison, or a procedure to examine tissue.

Before the appointment, note any mark that has changed in colour, outline, size, sensation, or surface. Mention personal or family history of skin cancer, significant sun exposure, and any previous skin procedures. Bring earlier photographs if they show how a lesion looked before.

During the visit, the clinician may examine the whole skin surface or focus on selected marks. You can ask for the location of any lesion that needs monitoring and how to check it at home.

Seek timely medical advice for a new or changing mark, a lesion that repeatedly bleeds or crusts, a sore that does not heal, or a spot that becomes persistently painful or itchy. A symptom can have several explanations, but these changes warrant direct examination rather than relying on a photograph or self-check alone.

Ask whether the mark needs a baseline image, what interval is suitable for review, which changes matter most, and whether tissue sampling is recommended.