Sydney Confocal
Confocal microscopy is a highly specialised, non-invasive imaging technique that has revolutionised skin cancer diagnosis.
About Confocal Microscopy
Confocal microscopy allows doctors to examine individual skin cells in real time without needing to remove tissue. Using a laser microscope, a confocal microscopy provides magnification of up to 1000 times, offering a cellular-level view of the upper layers of the skin.
Confocal microscopy is especially prized for its high degree of accuracy in diagnosing skin cancer, including melanoma. It allows clinicians to distinguish between benign (non-cancerous) and malignant lesions, reducing the need for unnecessary biopsies. Studies have shown that confocal microscopy can lower biopsy rates by up to 43% while maintaining a melanoma detection with high sensitivity.
Confocal microscopy is also useful in treatment planning and follow-up. It can guide where to biopsy within a suspicious lesion and help map the edges of a melanoma before surgery. This is especially valuable in challenging cases such as lentigo maligna on the face. Additionally, confocal microscopy can monitor how well non-surgical treatments (including topical therapies and/or radiotherapy) are working.
About Dr Mehrnoosh Alian
Performing diagnostic confocal microscopy requires advanced training and a deep understanding of skin pathology to accurately interpret highly detailed images. Dr Alian has undertaken extensive postgraduate education in skin cancer detection and management, including a Master’s degree from the University of Queensland. She has completed further advanced training in confocal microscopy in both Italy and Australia, working with pioneering specialists in this field.