Factors driving the use of dermoscopy in Europe: a pan‐European survey

A.M. Forsea, P. Tschandl, V. del Marmol, I. Zalaudek, H.P. Soyer, A.C. Geller, G. Argenziano, M. Arenbergerova, A. Azenha, A. Blum, J.C. Bowling, R.P. Braun, M. Bylaite-Bucinskiene, L. Čabrijan, H. Dobrev, J. Hegy, H. Helppikangas, R. Hofmann-Wellenhof, R. Karls, U. Krumkachou, N. Kukutsch, I. McCormack, L. Mekokishvili, N. Nathansohn, K. Nielsen, J. Olah, F. Özdemir, S. Puig, P. Rubegni, T. Planinsek Rucigaj, T.R. Schopf, V. Sergeev, A. Stratigos, L. Thomas, D. Tiodorovic, A. Vahlberg, Z. Zafirovik

Dermoscopy used correctly is an essential tool helping clinicians in the diagnosis of skin diseases and the early detection of skin cancers. Despite its proven benefits, there is scarce evidence about the way dermoscopy is used in everyday practice by European dermatologists. To identify the motivations, obstacles, and modifiable factors influencing the use of dermoscopy in the daily dermatology practice across Europe. All registered dermatologists in 32 European countries were invited to an online survey of 20 questions regarding: the demographic and practice characteristics, dermoscopy training and self-confidence in dermoscopic skills, patterns of dermoscopy use, reasons of not using dermoscopy and attitudes on dermoscopy utility. We collected 7480 valid answers, out of which 89% reported using dermoscopy. The main reasons for not using dermoscopy were lack of equipment (58% of non-users) and lack of training (42%). Dermoscopy training during residency was reported by 41% of dermoscopy users and by 12% of non-users (p<0.001). Dermatologists working in public hospitals were the least likely to use dermoscopy. High use of dermoscopy across all the spectrum of skin diseases was reported by 62% of dermoscopy users and was associated with dermoscopy training during residency, the use of polarized light and digital dermoscopy devices, longer dermoscopy practice, younger age, and female gender. Expanding access to dermoscopy equipment, especially in public healthcare facilities and establishing dermoscopy training during dermatology residency would further enhance the substantially high dermoscopy use across European countries. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.