Dermoscopy and novel non invasive imaging of Cutaneous Metastases

Abstract

Cutaneous Metastases, a rare clinical manifestation of great importance, arise critical differential diagnostic dilemmas among physicians, as it can easily masquerade into various forms. Besides histological confirmation, a few research has been conducted, concerning imaging and visual magnification techniques, aiming to assess promptly an accurate diagnosis. We review, their benefits and drawbacks, highlighting their necessity to guide histology documentation. Classic imaging techniques have partially served this need so far; nowadays, novel skin imaging methods e.g. Reflectance Confocal Microscopy and Optical Coherence Tomography, as well as dermoscopy, may enlighten these dark diagnostic pathways pioneering effective tools in clinical process. To the best of our knowledge, none of published articles incorporate radiological evaluation and the novel dermoscopic skill in quiver of clinician's diagnostic algorithm concerning Cutaneous Metastases. Herein, we present cumulative data of diagnostic accuracy of imaging and dermoscopic improvements, recommending increasingly their evidence for sufficient CM diagnostic documentation.