Teledermoscopy – An Emerging Technology for Skin Cancer Detection

Abstract

Dermatology faces a worsening scarcity of providers, especially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With lengthening waiting periods for skin cancer screening examinations, there is a distinct need for alternatives to in-person evaluation. Delayed diagnosis is associated with poorer outcomes, especially in melanoma. Teledermatology has the potential to prevent the increased morbidity and mortality associated with late-stage diagnosis, especially when utilized with dermoscopy. In the literature, this novel field of ‘teledermoscopy’ has exhibited accuracy and reliability comparable to face-to-face visits, and it is a promising alternative intervention for those who require triaging or for patients who are unable to access in-person care (rural, underserved populations). Although early data are promising, formal guidelines for acquisition and interpretation of dermatoscopic images must be established before wider implementation is possible. With standardization, use at home or in primary care offices might relieve some of the pressure on an overburdened dermatologic care system and help patients requiring urgent care to be seen more expediently.