Surgilube As A Replacement For Oil Duringdermascopic Examination

Some physicians prefer to use Surgilube while performing Dermascopy

. Dermascopy is typically performed by dermatologists attempting to ascertain whether or not a particular lesion is malignant or benign. As a diagnostic tool, dermascopic examinations have continued to gain in popularity since their inception. This is particularly true for dermatologist attempting to determine whether or not their patient is presenting with melanoma.

The dermascope is a unique instrument that has evolved over several centuries. Dermascopy was first conceptualized in the late 17th century and has evolved over time to what it is today. There are two basic models of dermascopes. The most modern rendition uses polarized light and usually about 10x magnification. The instrument is applied directly to the skin without the use of a lubricant or other immersion liquid. The second is an older model, still in regular use, which uses non-polarized light, a glass plate and an immersion liquid (usually an oil) to help reduce surface reflection.

Traditionally, many things have been used as the immersion fluid, including cedar wood oil, immersion oil, alcohol and even water. Drs. Jane Bellet and James Grichnik produced an article for Archives of Dermatology in 2003. One of their suggestions was that Surgilube should be used as replacement oil during dermascopic examination. Various oils have a proven history of causing contact dermatitis for some patients while others raise concerns about potential teratogenic, carcinogenic or fetotoxic properties.

The suggested lubricant is a trademark brand named lubricant produced by Savage Laboratories, a division of Fougera Pharmaceuticals. This lubricant is used by surgeons, doctors and dermatologists to provide continuous lubrication during the insertion of endoscopes, catheters, gloved hands or other surgical instruments. It not only provides ease of movement for the physicians, but it also eases any secondary discomfort for the recovering patient. The lubricant is sterile and bacteriostatic, meaning that it suspends the growth and multiplication of bacteria. The formula is a blend of water-soluble, all natural gums that is non-greasy and easy to clean away. Surgilube is commonly used by gynecologists and ultrasound technicians as well.

Drs. Bellet and Grichnik argue that the lubricant is an ideal immersion fluid for dermascopic diagnosis for a number of reasons, not the least of which is its sterile, bacteriostatic properties. The water-based gel is made of natural gums which provide it with a unique texture. Unlike water or oil, the use of the gel eliminates bubbles, which can interfere with the physicians ability to get a clear view of potentially pathologic patterns in the lesion.

This lubricant is also hypo-allergenic, making it especially ideal for use on abrasions when the patients propensity for contact dermatitis is unknown. While this particular lubricant may not have originally been intended for use as an immersion fluid for dermascopic examinations, it is clear that its practical use in such a procedure makes it an invaluable tool.

by: Ed Letendre

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