Confocal Microscopy
Cygnet Dermatology offers reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in New Lambton, Newcastle. This non-invasive imaging technique helps your dermatologist assess selected skin lesions and monitor certain skin conditions.
A confocal scan provides detailed images beneath the skin’s surface without removing a tissue sample. In suitable cases, it may help reduce unnecessary biopsies of benign lesions. Your dermatologist will advise whether a scan is appropriate or whether a skin biopsy is needed.
What is reflectance confocal microscopy?
Reflectance confocal microscopy uses near-infrared light to produce detailed, black-and-white images of the upper layers of the skin.
These images give your dermatologist additional information about a skin lesion, helping guide decisions about further investigation, monitoring or treatment.
At Cygnet Dermatology, confocal microscopy is performed by Dr Junger.
When can a confocal scan help?
Our clinic accepts referrals for:
Assessment of suspicious skin lesions
including pigmented and pink lesions, where confocal imaging may help guide further investigation.
Monitoring of selected precursor lesions
such as atypical melanocytic hyperplasia.
Monitoring lentigo maligna before and after treatment with topical imiquimod.
If you are concerned about having a biopsy, discuss this with your dermatologist.
Confocal microscopy may be useful in selected cases, but it cannot replace every biopsy.
What happens during a confocal scan?
Confocal microscopy is a painless procedure that involves placing a small imaging device against your skin.
A small drop of oil is applied to the area to help the device capture clear images. Your dermatologist uses either a handheld probe or a probe held in place with an adhesive sticker. The oil is wiped away once the scan is complete. The scan itself does not involve cutting the skin or removing tissue.
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A small drop of oil is applied to the area to help capture clear images beneath the skin’s surface.
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A handheld probe or a probe secured with an adhesive sticker is placed against your skin to capture detailed images.
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Your dermatologist assesses the images for features that help guide diagnosis and decisions about your care.
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Your dermatologist recommends monitoring, a biopsy or treatment where needed. The oil is wiped away after the scan.
Is confocal microscopy suitable for every skin lesion?
Confocal microscopy examines the upper layers of the skin, reaching a depth of approximately 200 micrometres, or 0.2 millimetres. It is therefore unsuitable for assessing some thicker or deeper lesions.
Images can also be more difficult to obtain from:
- Thick skin on the palms and soles.
- Heavily pigmented or crusty lesions.
- Lesions on the scalp or between the fingers and toes.
Confocal microscopy fees
A confocal scan fee applies in addition to your consultation fee. The scan fee varies according to the type of examination required, and our team will provide an estimate when you book.
Please contact the clinic for current fees and information about any applicable Medicare rebates.
Frequently asked questions
A confocal scan fee applies in addition to your consultation fee. The scan fee varies according to the type of examination required, and our team will provide an estimate when you book.
Please contact the clinic for current fees and information about any applicable Medicare rebates.