New directions in dermatopathology: in vivo confocal microscopy in clinical practice

Dermatol Clin. 2012 Oct;30(4):799-814, viii. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2012.06.012. Epub 2012 Aug 14.

Abstract

In vivo confocal microscopy represents a new device that generates a virtual skin biopsy at cytologic resolution. This article describes the most relevant confocal findings and their histopathologic correlates in skin oncology and inflammatory diseases. The light and dark of confocal microscopy are briefly discussed in relation with its clinical applications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Dermatology / methods*
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Microscopy, Confocal* / instrumentation
  • Nevus, Pigmented / pathology*
  • Skin Diseases / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology