Russian clinics deploy high-tech dermatoscopes to catch skin cancer early

The Sverdlovsk Regional Oncology Dispensary (SROD) has upgraded its skin cancer detection capabilities with seven new dermatoscopes. Costing around 1.6 million rubles, these devices will help doctors spot early signs of melanoma and other skin cancers. The technology is now available at clinics in Yekaterinburg, Nizhny Tagil, and Kamensk-Uralsky. The new dermatoscopes offer 10x magnification, allowing detailed examination of pigmented and vascular skin lesions. They also enable digital tracking of changes over time, creating a 'digital skin passport' for patients. This helps monitor suspicious moles and spots more effectively.

Each month, SROD conducts over 2,000 dermatoscopic examinations to catch skin cancer at its earliest stages. Early detection is crucial, as treatment success rates reach 99% when cancers are found soon enough. The centre performs around 5,000 surgeries yearly to remove superficial skin lesions, often using minimally invasive methods. During referrals, patients receive a full-body inspection, including hard-to-reach areas. One recent case involved the removal of a 7-mm basal cell carcinoma, demonstrating how early intervention reduces the need for extensive surgery. A public skin cancer screening event will be held on May 30 in Yekaterinburg at 8 Scherbakova Street. Those interested can register by calling +7 (343) 218-95-86.

The introduction of advanced dermatoscopes strengthens SROD’s ability to detect skin cancer early. With higher precision and digital monitoring, doctors can now offer more effective and less invasive treatments. The next screening event provides an opportunity for residents to access these improved diagnostic services.