Dermoscopy: to cross-polarize, or not to cross-polarize, that is the question

Abstract

Dermoscopy is a non-invasive technique that visualizes the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin, identifying features that are not evident to the naked eye, making it a useful diagnostic technique in differentiating between benign and malignant skin lesions. There are two methods of dermoscopy, non-polarized and cross-polarized; both are perceived to give visual differences in lesion characteristics. The aim of this literature review is to identify the advantages and limitations between non-polarized, cross-polarized and also contact and non-contact techniques. This research confirms that there are similarities, as well as differences, in the visualization of lesions between non-polarized and cross-polarized dermoscopy. Non-polarized dermoscopy reveals superficial features and polarized dermoscopy shows deeper structures, concluding that the use of both methods can provide complementary information.

Acknowledgements

Figures 1 and 2 courtesy of Jan Sharp, Senior Medical Artist at the Media Resources Centre, Cardiff and Vale University Local Health Board.

Figures 3, 4 and 5 courtesy of Harold Rabinovitz MD, Skin and Cancer Associates, Planation, Florida.

We would also like to thank Schuco, Dr Peter Holt and Paul Crompton for their support.

Conflict of interest

The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.

Funding sources

None.