Researchers looked at the prominence of dermoscopy, a noninvasive technique that enhances visibility of skin details, in psoriasis diagnosis. This tool allows practitioners to see morphological details in the epidermis and superficial dermis, making it a preferable option for patients. Dermoscopy in psoriasis reveals specific patterns such as regular, red-dotted vessels, ring/hairpin-like vessels, and white scales, aiding in diagnosis and management. The technique’s utility extends to different types of psoriasis, including nail and palmoplantar psoriasis, and is beneficial in assessing severity and therapeutic effects. Researchers found that dermoscopy’s diagnostic accuracy is high for nail psoriasis, enhancing visualization of features not evident in clinical examinations. The tool also assists in differentiating psoriasis from other skin conditions like lichen planus and eczema, based on unique dermoscopic features. However, the application of dermoscopy in psoriasis diagnosis and management is still emerging, requiring further research to establish standardized diagnostic criteria and explore underlying mechanisms.
Reference: Wu Y, Sun L. Clinical value of dermoscopy in psoriasis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Feb;23(2):370-381. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15926. Epub 2023 Sep 14. PMID: 37710414.