A simple and cost-effective device for mobile dermoscopy

摘要

Sir, We had earlier presented an article mentioning the use of a simple jeweller's loupe as a dermoscopy device. Here, we present a modification by which any smart-phone camera can be converted into a dermoscopy device. Some of the popular devices available in the market for the same purpose are Canfield dermscope? (Canfield scientific) and Handyscope? (FotoFinder systems Gmbh) both of which can be attached to smart-phones and serve the purpose of effective dermoscopy. These devices are especially useful in the context of e-dermoscopy or teledermoscopy, in which dermoscopic images can also be transmitted along with the clinical images for teleconsultations. The main disadvantage of these devices, in the context of use in developing nations is the relatively high cost (starting from approximately 35.000INR/700USD). Moreover, most of these devices are compatible with only one particular make of smart-phones, limiting its utility.