Trichoscopy is an innovative method of diagnosing hair and scalp diseases. The method is based on dermoscopy. In trichoscopy hair and scalp structures can be visualized at multiple magnification levels and a special light source allows for partial analysis of the structures under the skin. Trichoscopy is performed only by doctors with extensive dermatological experience and deep medical knowledge, which allows for proper interpretation of trichoscopic images. The basic trichoscopy can identify most of the important irregularities. The result of such an examination is taken into account by the physician when making treatment decisions. The so-called ‘full trichoscopy’ involves quantitative analysis of abnormalities in some hair diseases. This test is useful before starting treatment and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in diseases such as androgenic alopecia or telogen effluvium.
Prof. Lidia Rudnicka was the first person to describe trichoscopy and developed criteria for recognizing many diseases using this method. Currently, trichoscopy is used by dermatologists around the world.
Prof. Lidia Rudnicka is a co-founder and the first president of the International Trichoscopy Society. Warsaw was chosen to be the city of the first world trichoscopic congress.