Melanoma diagnosis: why dermoscopy still leads the way

In this episode of the EADV Podcast, held on behalf of the EADV Melanoma Task Force, Prof. Monika Arenbergerova is joined by Prof. Zoe Apalla and Prof. Aimilios Lallas to discuss the central role dermoscopy continues to play in melanoma diagnosis.
The conversation opens with the newly published International Dermoscopy Society consensus recommendations for the management of lentigo maligna, exploring how dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy guide diagnosis, lesion mapping, and monitoring of treatments such as topical immunotherapy alongside surgery. Together, they discuss the drivers behind melanoma’s rising global incidence, striking differences in incidence and access to care across regions, and practical advice for clinicians building their dermoscopy skills, including the common pitfalls facing young dermatologists. 

The conversation also touches on how AI-powered digital biomarkers build on dermoscopy to help predict prognosis, and how each guest weighs sensitivity against specificity when deciding whether to biopsy. The episode closes with both speakers agreeing on what matters most for improving outcomes: faster access to specialists and earlier diagnosis of melanoma.