Dermoscopy of general dermatological conditions in Indian population: A descriptive study

Background: Patients attending the dermatology outpatient department (OPD) come with varied presentations. It is a challenge for a dermatologist to make a right diagnosis in a short time noninvasively. Hence in such conditions, dermoscope provides a rapid handy diagnostic aid. Objectives: The aim is to evaluate and compare the dermoscopic features of common dermatological conditions in an Indian population with brown skin. Materials and Methods: A total of 475 dermatoses including inflammatory, infectious, vesiculobullous, vascular, benign face tumors, hypopigmentary, drug reactions and miscellaneous conditions attending the OPD between March 2011 and January 2013 were enrolled in the study after obtaining informed consent. Detailed history and thorough dermatological examination were conducted to reach the final diagnosis. Dermlite II PRO dermoscope was used for the study. Data collected was analyzed by frequency and percentage. P value for each dermoscopic parameter in three groups was calculated using Chi-square test for independence using graph pad where the value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Red dotted vessel was a prominent feature in inflammatory conditions (P < 0.0003), which was found to be regular in a pattern in psoriasis (100%). The unique feature of lichen planus was Wickham's striae (P < 0.0001). Collarette scales were observed in 93% of cases of pityriasis rosea. Live nymphs depicting as brown oval structure (46.67%) were observed. Scabies mites head was characterized using “Triangular sign” (93%). Red brown dots and papilla-like structure were observed in most of the cases of warts. Comedo-like opening (P = 0.024) and milia-like cyst (P = 0.0495) are typical features of seborrheic keratosis. Conclusion: Dermoscopy findings provide an extra clue for the diagnosis of common dermatoses and it also helpful in prognostic evaluation and monitoring response to treatment