The article is a continuation of part I dealing with the technique and bioengineering methods for practice and research in dermatovenerology. In part II the authors discuss examination methods for imaging of the skin and its structures. They can be divided into direct and indirect ones. In the first part of direct methods attention is paid to classical photography and new digital photography. The authors compare properties, technical possibilities and advantages of both methods, their quality and application. They discuss also methods of archivation, computer processing and comprimation of data. The authors mention methods of macro- and microphotography, incl. stereomicroscopy. New methods include also videomicroscopy incl. its implementation in polarized light. This electronic microscopy provides when combined with the appropriate software the possibility of high standard processing of data, in particular skin tumours (melanomas) and naevi. Computer- assisted evaluation on the principle of so-called neuron networks makes even higher-standard ABCD+E+T analysis possible with a greater probability of melanoma detection. The system can be used also for other preservation and description of images. Connection by button „video-mail“ makes it possible to use of in teledermatology, i.e. in teledermatoscopy, teledermatopathology, during consultations and education. In the subsequent part microscopic methods are presented such as confocal and electron (scanning) microscopy with their design, technical parameters and use. The section on direct methods includes also capillaroscopy and fluorescent videomicroscopy, optic coherent tomography of the skin and proton magnetic resonance of the skin. Indirect methods include dopplerometry (A-, B-, C-, M-mode scan), laser-doppler flowmetry, assessment of inequalities of the skin surface (profilometry) and skin visiometry. Their design, technical and practical use are described.

        Key words: photography - dermatoscopy - stereomicroscopy - videomicroscopy - teledermatology - confocal microscopy - electron microscopy