Understanding the Importance of Dermatoscopy

Dr. Linda Nims, Dr. Kelly Redbord, and Dr. Rebecca Barry lead the expert staff at Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Group of Northern Virginia. These dermatologists in Vienna, VA, can treat several skin conditions ranging from moles to lesions, skin cancer, eczema, and so much more. Here are reasons why a dermatoscope is a helpful tool for your health.

What Is Dermatoscopy?

 You may have pimples, moles, lesions, and other blemishes on your skin. When you go to your local Vienna, VA, dermatologist for a consultation, they need a way to properly diagnose the issue. With a proper diagnosis, they can tell whether something is benign or cancerous. They can tell if there is an underlying issue or if the skin condition is purely topical.

A dermatoscope is a small portable device with strong magnification qualities. As a result, your dermatologist can conduct a close examination of those lesions, pimples, or moles on your skin. The tool can help a trained dermatologist tell if you have a typical mole or one that may need a biopsy test for skin cancer. They can make these judgments by looking at the color, pigment patterns, and other detailed information that isn't obvious to the naked eye.

Why Is Dermatoscopy Important?

 The staff at Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Group of Northern Virginia will use a dermatoscope to investigate potential skin cancer. The tool can help with early detection of skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma. It's an easier way to track changes in any skin lesions or moles. It may also be used to monitor warts, dermatofibromas, and vitiligo.

As a patient, you're protected in this process because it's a noninvasive way of investigating problems with your skin. It can improve your chances of early detection of major skin problems. The earlier you can detect these problems, the sooner you can start treatment.

The Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Group of Northern Virginia team can better care for your skin problems and treatments thanks to advanced tools and techniques. When it's time for a diagnosis with the aid of a dermatoscope in Vienna, VA, call the office at 703-938-5700 for an appointment with Dr. Nims, Dr. Redbord, or Dr. Barry.