Can DermLite FOTO be attached to any camera?
FOTO can be attached to any camera that has a filter thread attachment. Many cameras like the Canon PowerShot G10/11/12 can be used with a standard adapter directly available from DermLite. A few camera models require special adapter rings which can be purchased in many photographic supply stores. 35mm film cameras can only be used if the front of the lens does not rotate during focusing (which would cause unwanted rotation of the FOTO).
Can I use the flash with FOTO?
There is no point in using the flash, as it will not illuminate the field of view with FOTO. In digital cameras, you will need to turn off the automatic flash for best results.
Do you provide an instructions booklet with FOTO?
We include a highly visual, 12-language "Quick Start Guide" with every FOTO model, which will guide you through the few steps required for setting up the device. We design our products with simplicity in mind and have eliminated the need for a tedious and complicated product manual.
Does FOTO work with 220V?
The DermLite FOTO model includes a universal power supply, which is rated 110V-240V.
How long does the PowerPack 850 last?
Once fully charged and turned on, the Lithium-Ion battery delivers about 3 hours of continuous energy before light intensity drops off significantly. In typical intermittent use, the Power Pack should deliver enough power for about 50 five-minute exams.
How long does it take to recharge the Power Pack 850?
Depending on charge level, it can take up to 2 hours.
Why do I have to be in full contact with the skin?
To allow fixed focusing and image stability, FOTO is designed to be set onto the area of examination.
Which devices are compatible with a smartphone?
Any DL1, DL2, DL200, DL3, DL4, Foto X, GL, or DL handyscope may be used with a smartphone.
Current smartphone connection kits
Which cameras do you recommend?
We can highly recommend cameras like the Canon PowerShot (G10-12), which has excellent focusing, great overall image quality and high resolution.
Do you sell digital cameras?
Yes, we only sell 2-3 different models, primarily for the convenience of our customers.
Can I use manual focusing if my camera has problems focusing?
Yes, it may make life easier and quicker with some cameras. With a fixed distance to the skin, you can almost always use the same focus setting.
I wish to use a device like the FOTO but want to photograph superficial skin structures rather than deep pigmentation.
Cross-polarization cancels out surface reflections for imaging deep pigmentation in skin lesions. For a surface-polarized model, please contact DermLite and we may be able to help you with your special need.
When should I not use the faceplate?
The glass faceplate provides a fixed distance from the skin and helps to flatten your imaging area. However, you may choose to use the ring without the glass faceplate for imaging basal cells or telangiectasia as the glass-slide compression forces blood away from your imaging area.
Do I need to use my glasses?
Our recommendation is to try it with and without to find out what works best for you.
What is the difference between epiluminescence microscopy, dermatoscopy and Dermoscopy?
There is no difference at all, just different names for the same technique. In 2001 at the 1st World Congress of Dermoscopy the various terms were discussed and it was decided that in order to unify the terminology particularly with respect to research the term "Dermoscopy" should be used.
What magnification is the best used for Dermoscopy?
A 10-fold magnification is standard for hand held devices.
What are the limits of Dermoscopy?
Dermoscopy allows visualization of the horizontal plane of a given skin lesion only to the level of the papillary dermis. Structures in the reticular dermis cannot be seen, just like with the naked eye.
Heavily pigmented skin lesions are sometimes very difficult to diagnose, and hypopigmented or amelanotic melanoma represents a particular diagnostic challenge. Very thick tumours may lack a number of dermoscopic features and thus clinical experience and clinical diagnosis remains very important in these lesions.
If diagnostic doubt remains with Dermoscopy then the lesion should be biopsied; Dermoscopy is not 100%, so do not expect it to be!
What type of immersion oil is best used for the oil immersion dermatoscopes?
Alcohol gel is preferred, as it should be easy to hand in the examination room and will reduce the theoretical risk of cross contamination. Around the eyes and nails ultrasound gel is beneficial as it will not irritate the eye and does not run off the nail.
For the instruments with cross-polarised lenses there is no need for immersion oil; however care should still be taken to keep the instrument clean and to avoid cross contamination between patients.
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