Benefits of dermoscopy in primary care

JAAPA. 2024 Jun 1;37(6):37-41. doi: 10.1097/01.JAA.0000000000000023. Epub 2024 May 28.

Abstract

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with an estimated 9,500 new diagnoses made each day. Dermoscopy (also called dermatoscopy) is an established clinical approach to improving skin cancer evaluation. However, only 8% to 9% of primary care physicians use it, and no data are available for physician associate/assistant or NP use. This article reports a dermoscopy algorithm that primary care providers can use to increase the detection of skin cancer and reduce unnecessary referrals and biopsies.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Biopsy / methods
  • Dermoscopy*
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / diagnosis
  • Melanoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Melanoma / pathology
  • Physician Assistants
  • Primary Health Care*
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Skin Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Skin Neoplasms* / pathology
  • United States