Confocal microscopy

Confocal microscopy has transformed dermatological diagnosis by allowing suspicious skin lesions to be evaluated without the need for a traditional biopsy. By generating real-time images of skin structures at a cellular level, it provides diagnostic accuracy comparable to histopathology while preserving tissue integrity.

Non-invasive and safe technology

This system uses a laser as its light source to examine the skin in vivo. It does not require contrast injections, incisions or exposure to ionising radiation. As a result, it is a safe and well-tolerated technique that reduces patient discomfort and anxiety associated with invasive diagnostic procedures.

Faster clinical decision-making

Real-time results not only eliminate prolonged waiting times but also allow treatment decisions to be made more quickly and safely. This is particularly important in conditions where early intervention is critical, such as melanoma and other skin tumours.

Confocal microscopy is not limited to initial diagnosis. It also enables detailed follow-up of skin lesions and assessment of response to different dermatological treatments, allowing therapeutic strategies to be adjusted when necessary.

Real-time assessment of treatment response

This technology makes it possible to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments such as cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy or intralesional treatments before completing the full therapeutic course. In this way, early modifications can be made if the response is suboptimal, helping to prevent persistence or progression of lesions.

Fewer unnecessary surgical procedures

By improving diagnostic certainty, confocal microscopy reduces the number of surgical excisions performed on lesions that later prove to be benign. This is especially relevant for lesions located on the face or other highly visible areas, where avoiding unnecessary tissue removal helps preserve both function and appearance.

The confocal microscope provides cross-sectional, high-resolution images of the skin, similar to those obtained with advanced imaging techniques, allowing detailed analysis of cellular structures while respecting the integrity of the skin.

Minimising aesthetic impact

In addition to avoiding unnecessary biopsies, confocal microscopy can guide biopsy sampling when tissue removal is unavoidable. This allows more precise targeting of the area of interest, minimising the amount of tissue removed and reducing scarring and post-procedural discomfort.

No side effects

Confocal microscopy is performed by placing a small ring over the lesion, to which the imaging device is attached. Images are obtained without the need for injections, incisions or punctures. As a result, patients avoid pain, scarring and the side effects associated with conventional diagnostic methods.

Confocal microscopy plays an important role in the diagnosis and follow-up of a wide range of skin conditions. It provides valuable information for designing effective treatment strategies and for predicting and monitoring therapeutic response.

Skin cancer and melanoma

The combination of confocal microscopy and high-resolution dermoscopy allows accurate pre-surgical diagnosis of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and other skin tumours. This facilitates timely treatment planning, which is essential given the importance of early intervention in skin cancer.

Other dermatological conditions

Confocal microscopy can also be used in the assessment and monitoring of inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis, rosacea and hidradenitis suppurativa; blistering disorders (such as pemphigus or epidermolysis bullosa); skin infections; and autoimmune conditions such as vitiligo.