This is the term used to describe the technique of analysing skin lesions with a special skin surface microscope. The dermatoscope is the special equipment used, and this can be connected to a camera. It is especially useful for helping judge whether a mole needs removing or not. Also, moles can be photographed and the images compared with photographs taken previously or saved for later comparison. This can help avoid needless surgery. However, if a mole is changing or causing trouble, often the only way to be 100% sure is to have it removed and checked in the laboratory.