Dermoscopy in Psoriasis: Clinical Value

According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, dermoscopy holds significant clinical value in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of psoriasis.

Dermoscopy has gained significant attention for its utility in evaluating inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis. Researchers aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of dermoscopy in diagnosing and managing psoriasis beyond traditional diagnostic methods. They conducted a review of published literature to assess the use of dermoscopy in evaluating psoriasis.

The study highlighted the diagnostic value of dermoscopy in identifying psoriasis vulgaris, nail psoriasis, and other psoriasis types by examining vascular patterns, scale patterns, and other dermoscopic features. Key diagnostic features include:

• Vascular pattern: Dermoscopy reveals specific vascular patterns in psoriasis, such as regularly distributed dotted vessels, which are crucial for diagnosis.
   
• Scale pattern: The presence of white scales and their distribution are characteristic dermoscopic features of psoriasis.

Furthermore, the study discussed the broader application of dermoscopy in:

• Differential diagnosis: Dermoscopy helps distinguish psoriasis from other skin conditions with similar clinical presentations, such as eczema and lichen planus.
   
• Efficacy and severity assessment: Dermoscopy is useful for assessing the severity of psoriasis and monitoring the efficacy of treatments over time.
   
• Prediction and monitoring:  Dermoscopy can predict the response to treatment and monitor disease progression or remission.

Dermoscopy shows great promise for assessing disease severity, predicting treatment efficacy, and monitoring disease progression. This noninvasive diagnostic technique enhances the ability to manage psoriasis more effectively and offers a detailed visualization that aids in comprehensive patient care.

Reference
Wu Y, Sun L. Clinical value of dermoscopy in psoriasis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23(2):370-381. doi:10.1111/jocd.15926