Dermoscopy in general dermatology

The "Dermoscopy in General Dermatology" course offers a comprehensive exploration of the application of dermoscopy in diagnosing and managing non-neoplastic skin conditions. Presented by Dr. Aimilios Lallas, this program is designed to enhance the diagnostic capabilities of clinicians managing general dermatology cases.

The course provides detailed insights into the use of dermoscopy for various inflammatory and infectious dermatoses, focusing on:
- Introduction to Dermoscopy in General Dermatology:
- Understand the significance of dermoscopy as a diagnostic tool in dermatology, akin to a stethoscope in internal medicine.
- Explore how dermoscopy aids in identifying atypical presentations and refining differential diagnoses.
- Key Diagnostic Parameters:
- Learn the standardised five-category diagnostic framework: vessels, scales, follicular criteria, other structures, and specific clues.
- Discover how these criteria help differentiate between similar-looking conditions.
- Common Inflammatory Skin Conditions:
- Psoriasis: Characterised by numerous dotted vessels in a regular distribution and white scales, consistent across various anatomical sites.
- Dermatitis: Defined by yellow scales due to serum extravasation and dotted vessels in a patchy distribution.
- Lichen Planus: Identified by Wickham striae (white crossing lines), a hallmark of the condition.
- Pityriasis Rosea: Features peripheral scaling, aiding differentiation from other erythematous conditions.
- Facial Dermatoses:
- Rosacea: Reticular linear vessels forming vascular polygons.
- Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE): Dominated by follicular plugs and perifollicular white structures in early stages.
- Granulomatous Disorders: Highlighted by orange structureless areas indicative of granulomas.
- Infectious Conditions:
- Scabies: Diagnosed by the "jet with contrail" sign, a combination of keratotic lines and brown triangular structures.
- Mycosis Fungoides: Differentiated from chronic dermatitis by short linear vessels.
- Practical Applications and Case Studies:
- Examine real-world cases where dermoscopy refines or reverses initial clinical diagnoses.
- Learn to use dermoscopy for conditions like necrobiosis lipoidica, porokeratosis, and follicular psoriasis.

Through this course, healthcare professionals will gain the skills to incorporate dermoscopy into their routine practice, enhancing their ability to diagnose and manage complex dermatological conditions effectively. This course bridges the gap between clinical observations and advanced diagnostic precision, empowering clinicians to provide superior patient care.