One of the most modern and safest methods in skin cancer screening is computer-assisted reflected-light microscopy, which is used for the early detection of conspicuous skin changes and image documentation. With the help of this procedure, skin changes can be examined, assessed and, above all, documented in the long term much better.
With digital reflected-light microscopy, the patient can follow the entire examination on a computer screen. The conspicuous skin changes are recorded with a special high-performance camera with up to 70-fold magnification and optimally displayed on the screen.
The computer evaluates the image data based on certain factors (e.g. extent of the skin change, shape, pigmentation, etc.) and determines a risk score. This gives an initial assessment of whether the skin change can be classified as harmless, suspicious or dangerous.
The image data of conspicuous skin changes can also be saved and compared with the digital images of the last examination at the next check-up. In this way, even the slightest changes can be detected that are not visible to the naked eye.
Thanks to precise diagnostics and the best possible control, unnecessary biopsies and/or operations can be avoided in many cases with the help of computer-assisted reflected-light microscopy.
In case of doubt, however, only a biopsy (tissue sample) can provide definitive clarity as to whether a conspicuous skin change is benign or malignant. Despite increased diagnostic certainty, computer-assisted image analysis cannot replace the knowledge and experience of a qualified dermatologist in the assessment of moles, but it can support him in his work as best as possible.