Non‐invasive optical examination plays a crucial role in various aspects of dermatology, such as diagnosis, management and research. Multiphoton microscopy uses a unique submicron technology to stimulate autofluorescence (AF), allowing for the observation of cellular structure, assessment of redox status and quantification of collagen fibres. This advanced imaging technique offers dermatologists novel insights into the skin's structure, positioning it as a promising ‘stethoscope’ for future development in the field. This review provides an overview of multiphoton microscopy's principles, technology and application in studying normal skin, tumour and inflammatory diseases, as well as collagen‐related and pigmentary diseases.
Background
Superficial basal cell carcinoma (SBCC) is the rare subtype of basal cell carcinoma (BCC). BCC occurs in exposed areas such as the head and face, SCBB prone to form in trunk. Due to the manifestation of erythema and desquamation, it is prone to misdiagnosed as Bowen's disease in clinica.
Materials and methods
A 68‐year‐old female presented with coin‐sized erythema located on the lower abdomen for 5 years. Histopathological examination was performed, and results informed the diagnosis of SBCC. Lesions were detected by dermoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and multiphoton microscopy (MPM).
Results
Dermoscopy revealed yellow–red background with more dendritic and linear proliferating vessels and more blue‐gray nonaggregated dots structures. RCM displayed streaming of stratum spinosum, tortuous dilated vessels, highlighted inflammatory cells, and medium refraction round and oval tumor cell masses. MPM showed epidermal cells in polar arrangement, increased cell spacing, disorganized stratum granulosum and elastic fibers are gathered in clusters.
Conclusion
We described a case of SBCC detected by dermoscopy, RCM and MPM. Noninvasive imaging features may provide a potentially tools in recognition and differentiation of SBCC.
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