Dermoscopy refers to the technique of examination of the skin surface with a microscope. Dermoscopy is used widely by general practitioners, dermatologists and plastic surgeons to evaluate skin lesions.

This examination technique is useful in skin cancer medicine to examine skin lesions at a microscopic level to examine skin structures and patterns. It requires a powerful light source and a magnifying lens (a dermatoscope).

Dermoscopy is helpful in many other dermatological circumstances, however in skin cancer medicine - many skin cancers have dermoscopic features that are visible which increases early detection and treatment rates, while minimising unnecessary treatment of benign lesions.