Dermoscopy
Pronunciation: dur-MOS-koh-pee
A non-invasive diagnostic technique using a handheld illuminated magnifier to visualise subsurface skin structures invisible to the naked eye.
Full Definition
Dermoscopy (also termed dermatoscopy or epiluminescence microscopy) allows clinicians to examine skin lesions at 10× magnification under polarised or non-polarised light, improving diagnostic accuracy for melanoma and other pigmented lesions. In editorial work, the preferred contemporary term in most peer-reviewed dermatology journals is 'dermoscopy,' though 'dermatoscopy' remains acceptable; editors should enforce whichever term is prescribed by the publication's house style and ensure consistency throughout. Descriptions of dermoscopic findings follow a standardized lexicon (e.g., atypical pigment network, regression structures, blue-white veil) that editors should not paraphrase. The instrument is called a 'dermatoscope' or 'dermoscope.'
Usage
Usage note: 'Dermoscopy' is preferred in most contemporary dermatology journals over 'dermatoscopy.' Enforce house style and ensure the instrument ('dermoscope') and the technique ('dermoscopy') are not confused.
In Context
- "Dermoscopy revealed an atypical pigment network with irregular streaks, prompting excisional biopsy." — Dermatology clinic report
- "The paper alternated between 'dermoscopy' and 'dermatoscopy'; the editor standardized to 'dermoscopy' per journal style." — Copy-editing log