BACKGROUND: Since devices for digital epiluminescence microscopy and for telemedicine have become affordable, a critical evaluation of this new method has been needed. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was a critical evaluation of teledermatoscopy under routine conditions in private practice. METHODS: Pigmented skin lesions (PSLs) scheduled for excision were documented with a digital epiluminescence microscopy (DELM) system. Images were sent to the PSL consultation at the Department of Dermatology of the University Hospital Geneva, where a diagnosis was established. The histopathologic report including the initial diagnosis was sent afterward. Both approaches were compared concerning diagnostic accuracy. RESULTS: Over a period of 6 months, 55 lesions on 51 patients have been included in this study. Picture quality was good or very good in more than 90%. Diagnostic accuracy of the teledermatoscopy approach was superior to that of the conventional approach for malignant melanocytic lesions. CONCLUSION: We have shown the feasibility of a teledermatoscopic consultation. The gain of diagnostic accuracy in this teledermatoscopic approach, especially for malignant melanocytic lesions, suggests that patients might benefit directly from such a consultation at distance.
BACKGROUND: Since devices for digital epiluminescence microscopy and for telemedicine have become affordable, a critical evaluation of this new method has been needed. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was a critical evaluation of teledermatoscopy under routine conditions in private practice. METHODS:Pigmented skin lesions (PSLs) scheduled for excision were documented with a digital epiluminescence microscopy (DELM) system. Images were sent to the PSL consultation at the Department of Dermatology of the University Hospital Geneva, where a diagnosis was established. The histopathologic report including the initial diagnosis was sent afterward. Both approaches were compared concerning diagnostic accuracy. RESULTS: Over a period of 6 months, 55 lesions on 51 patients have been included in this study. Picture quality was good or very good in more than 90%. Diagnostic accuracy of the teledermatoscopy approach was superior to that of the conventional approach for malignant melanocytic lesions. CONCLUSION: We have shown the feasibility of a teledermatoscopic consultation. The gain of diagnostic accuracy in this teledermatoscopic approach, especially for malignant melanocytic lesions, suggests that patients might benefit directly from such a consultation at distance.
Authors: A Zink; A Kolbinger; M Leibl; I Léon Suarez; J Gloning; C Merkel; J Winkler; T Biedermann; J Ring; B Eberlein Journal: Hautarzt Date: 2017-11 Impact factor: 0.751
Authors: Naomi Chuchu; Jacqueline Dinnes; Yemisi Takwoingi; Rubeta N Matin; Susan E Bayliss; Clare Davenport; Jacqueline F Moreau; Oliver Bassett; Kathie Godfrey; Colette O'Sullivan; Fiona M Walter; Richard Motley; Jonathan J Deeks; Hywel C Williams Journal: Cochrane Database Syst Rev Date: 2018-12-04