Scoping scalp disorders: practical use of a novel dermatoscope to diagnose hair and scalp conditions.

BACKGROUND: Dermoscopy has been widely implemented to diagnose various skin and scalp disorders. However, existing devices that call for direct scalp contact may alter the appearance of hair features or perifollicular structures. OBJECTIVE: This paper will show how the Canfield DermScope can quickly and easily identify various nonscarring and scarring scalp disorders. Its open design does not change the direction of affected hairs or blanch certain features such as erythema. Features like perifollicular hyperkeratosis and loss of follicular orifices are still easily visible. METHODS AND MATERIALS: The author prospectively photographed patients with hair and scalp disorders in private practice between 2011 to 2012 using the handheld Canfield DermScope device. RESULTS: The presence of scale, erythema, tufting, miniaturized or broken hairs, and loss of follicular orifices were quickly identified to make a diagnosis. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of hair and scalp disorders can be greatly facilitated by the use of the DermScope device.