title: The importance of trichoscopy in clinical practice.
abstract: Trichoscopy corresponds to scalp and hair dermoscopy and has been increasingly used as an aid in the diagnosis, follow-up, and prognosis of hair disorders. Herein, we report selected cases harbouring scalp or hair diseases, in whom trichoscopy proved to be a valuable tool in their management. A review of the recent literature on this hot topic was performed comparing the described patterns with our findings in clinically common conditions, as well as in rare hair shaft abnormalities, where trichoscopy may display pathognomonic features. In our view, trichoscopy represents a valuable link between clinical and histological diagnosis. We detailed some trichoscopic patterns, complemented with our original photographs and our insights into nondescribed patterns.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Centro Hospitalar São João EPE Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernani Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal.
authors.forename: Ana Filipa
authors.initials: AF
authors.lastname: Pedrosa
authors.forename: Paulo
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Morais
authors.forename: Carmen
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Lisboa
authors.forename: Filomena
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Azevedo