Enhancement of pediatric ophthalmologic diagnosis with a handheld polarized dermatoscope.
OBJECTIVE
In pediatric primary care, an adjunct for ophthalmology diagnosis and monitoring of treatment could be of great advantage. The portable polarized dermatoscope can readily fit the purpose as an alternative to the classic slit lamp device.


METHODS
We describe and demonstrate our clinical experience using the dermatoscope for diverse ocular conditions.


RESULTS
Beyond its effective primary role as an examination tool for detecting dermatopathology, the dermatoscope proves its worth in a variety of separate ophthalmologic clinical states where intricate details need recognition. From corneal or subtarsal foreign body identification, to tear gutter assessment, this instrument can facilitate our work whenever magnification and illumination is beneficial.


CONCLUSIONS
The technique described raises the option of using a substitute for usually lacking, cumbersome equipment for many therapeutic situations, rural clinics and home visits, easily available for the busy pediatrician, demanding little training, and at a reasonable cost.
1Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
Sody A
SA
Naimer
Jacob
J
Urkin
D002648:Child; D065306:Corneal Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis; D046169:Dermoscopy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D003941:Diagnostic Techniques, Ophthalmological / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005128:Eye Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005129:Eye Foreign Bodies / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D066167:Slit Lamp
clinical practice; dermatoscope; ophthalomological conditions; unconventional use