ABSTRACT
Teledermatology is one of the most important developments of digitalisation in dermatology. It has helped to ensure continuity of care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The combination of teledermatology with artificial intelligence can significantly improve medical decision-making. Among imaging modalities, dermoscopy is the most widely used, and its effectiveness can be significantly enhanced when combined with artificial intelligence. Novel techniques that have emerged in recent years include high-frequency ultrasound, optical coherence tomography or multispectral imaging. These are currently used in dermatological research but are expected to gradually become part of daily patient care. The knowledge of digital technologies and new imaging techniques is essential for the modern dermatologist. In the future, it is expected to be an essential part of modern and optimised patient care.
ABSTRACT
There is a growing scope of different telemedicine modalities in patient care, especially with the development of various communication and digital imaging devices. In dermatology, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number of healthcare facilities providing teledermatology consultations after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Experiences have shown that the application of teledermatology systems can increase access to dermatology care for the population, reduce waiting time for cases requiring immediate face-to-face consultation and minimize costs for patients and, in the longer term, for healthcare systems as well.
ABSTRACT
During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, outpatient care was limited and it resulted in developing an asynchronous teledermatology system. The aim of our retrospective study was to provide quantitative data the first time about use of teledermatology in the Hungarian healthcare system between March 25 and July 13, 2020. The number of cases, regional distribution and type of diagnoses were analyzed. We also followed up patients who were referred to in-person dermoscopic examination. A total of 10.287 teledermatology consultations were completed at our department. 5.967 (58%) patients were female and 4.320 (42%) patients were male with a mean age of 32.7±22.5 years. 5.967 (58%) cases were from the capital city and its metropolitan area and 32% was from other regions of Hungary. The most common diagnosis was dermatitis, followed by skin infections and pigmented skin lesions. In 1.440 cases, the patient was referred to a dermoscopic examination. Teledermatological examination raised also the diagnosis of malignant skin cancer in 190 patients. Later it was confirmed in 111 cases based on dermoscopic examination. Melanoma was confirmed in 14%, squamous cell carcinoma in 15%, basal cell carcinoma in 63% and other malignancies in 8%. We compared the presumed diagnosis given during the teledermatology consultation with the personal examination. The sensitivity of our system proved to be 87% with a specificity of 86% for diagnosing malignant skin lesions. In addition to the large number of general skin conditions, life-threatening diseases were screened, using teledermatology under the first wave of the COVID- 19 pandemic. The correct diagnosis and treatment of most diseases is a significant achievement. Overall, use of asynchronous teledermatology was an outstanding method during the pandemic period and it has the potential to become an important part of patient care in the future.