Analytic Dermoscopy of Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Dermoscopy is a noninvasive optical surface microscopy useful for diagnostic purposes in a number of skin conditions including basal cell carcinoma (BCC). To use analytic dermoscopy to compare the size and shape of dermoscopic structures in pigmented and nonpigmented BCCs. Image analysis using the Photoshop® software and morphometry were combined for highlighting the outlines of dermoscopic aspects in BCCs. The spoke-wheel structures were conveniently highlighted by the present method. They appeared larger in the pigmented BCC phenotype than in nonpigmented BCCs. The present method allows quantification of cauliflower-like structures (spoke-wheel and petal areas) using morphometric analysis. The procedure is applicable for identifying the therapeutic effects. The present analytical method was never used so far. It goes beyond descriptive dermoscopy and improves the accuracy of the findings. The procedure opens new horizons in quantitative objective dermoscopy.