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Mashoudy KD, Perez SM, Nouri K. From diagnosis to intervention: a review of telemedicine's role in skin cancer care. Arch Dermatol Res 2024; 316:139. [PMID: 38696032 PMCID: PMC11065900 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-02884-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Skin cancer treatment is a core aspect of dermatology that relies on accurate diagnosis and timely interventions. Teledermatology has emerged as a valuable asset across various stages of skin cancer care including triage, diagnosis, management, and surgical consultation. With the integration of traditional dermoscopy and store-and-forward technology, teledermatology facilitates the swift sharing of high-resolution images of suspicious skin lesions with consulting dermatologists all-over. Both live video conference and store-and-forward formats have played a pivotal role in bridging the care access gap between geographically isolated patients and dermatology providers. Notably, teledermatology demonstrates diagnostic accuracy rates that are often comparable to those achieved through traditional face-to-face consultations, underscoring its robust clinical utility. Technological advancements like artificial intelligence and reflectance confocal microscopy continue to enhance image quality and hold potential for increasing the diagnostic accuracy of virtual dermatologic care. While teledermatology serves as a valuable clinical tool for all patient populations including pediatric patients, it is not intended to fully replace in-person procedures like Mohs surgery and other necessary interventions. Nevertheless, its role in facilitating the evaluation of skin malignancies is gaining recognition within the dermatologic community and fostering high approval rates from patients due to its practicality and ability to provide timely access to specialized care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla D Mashoudy
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Sofia M Perez
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Keyvan Nouri
- Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1150 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
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Luo J, Yang Z, Xie Y, He Y, Wu M, Fang X, Liao X. Emerging Trends in Teledermatology Research: A Scientometric Analysis from 2002 to 2021. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:393-403. [PMID: 37449779 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: With advances in technology, teledermatology (TD) research has increased. However, an updated comprehensive quantitative analysis of TD research, especially one that identifies emerging trends of TD research in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) era, is lacking. Objective: To conduct a scientometric analysis of TD research documents between 2002 and 2021 and explore the emerging trends. Methods: CiteSpace was used to perform scientometric analysis and yielded visualized network maps with corresponding metric values. Emerging trends were identified mainly through burst detection of keywords/terms, co-cited reference clustering analysis, and structural variability analysis (SVA). Results: A total of 932 documents, containing 27,958 cited references were identified from 2002 to 2021. Most TD research was published in journals from the "Dermatology" and "Health Care Sciences & Services" categories. American, Australian, and European researchers contributed the most research and formed close collaborations. Keywords/terms with strong burst values to date were "primary care," "historical perspective," "emerging technique," "improve access," "mobile teledermoscopy (TDS)," "access," "skin cancer," "telehealth," "recent finding," "artificial intelligence (AI)," "dermatological care," and "dermatological condition." Co-cited reference clustering analysis showed that the recently active cluster labels included "COVID-19 pandemic," "skin cancer," "deep neural network," and "underserved population." The SVA identified two reviews (Tognetti et al. and Mckoy et al.) that may be highly cited in the future. Conclusion: During and after the COVID-19 era, emerging trends in research on TD (especially mobile TDS) may be related to skin cancer and AI as well as further exploration of primary care in underserved areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhao Luo
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ziyu Yang
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yao Xie
- Department of Dermatovenerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang He
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Miaomiao Wu
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Fang
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoyang Liao
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Reinders P, Augustin M, Kirsten N, Fleyder A, Otten M. Digital health interventions in dermatology-Mapping technology and study parameters of systematically identified publications. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:2440-2449. [PMID: 37528462 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Digital health interventions (DHI) potentially improve the efficiency and effectiveness of dermatological care. Currently, an overview clustering and characterizing the evidence on DHIs is missing. This systematic mapping of the literature aims to analyse published research on DHIs in dermatology to identify trends and gaps in research. For this purpose, a systematic search of the MEDLINE database was conducted in August 2022 to identify original publications on DHIs in dermatology. Data on country, targeted audience, DHI category, indication, outcome parameter and study design were extracted. Out of 12,009 records identified in MEDLINE, 403 studies were included in the final analysis. Studies on DHIs mainly performed in western countries, headed by the United States (n = 133), Germany (n = 32) and Spain (n = 23). Of all identified DHIs, 261 targeted healthcare providers (HCP), 66 clients (e.g. patients, caregivers, healthy individuals) and 67 both clients and HCPs. A majority of DHIs focussed on establishing a diagnosis (n = 254). Every other study analysed store-and-forward teledermatology (n = 187), followed by artificial intelligence applications for image analysis (n = 65). The most often analysed DHI category for clients was a support of health behaviour change (n = 31). Monitoring of clients was targeted by 77 studies. Skin cancer (n = 148), wounds (n = 29) and psoriasis (n = 29) were the most targeted indications by DHIs. Most studies analysed diagnostic performance (n = 166), fewer studies analysed acceptance (n = 92) and effectiveness (n = 98). Usability (n = 32) and efficiency (n = 36) were investigated only to a small extent. Studies on DHIs in dermatology have focused on teledermatology and AI applications, with an emphasis on skin cancer diagnosis. Apart from that, a range of DHIs for different user groups, purposes and indications were identified, demonstrating the broad potential for DHIs in dermatology. Further research with a wider set of outcome parameters is needed to fully understand the potential of DHIs and ensure their sustainable implementation into dermatological care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Reinders
- Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Augustin
- Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Natalia Kirsten
- Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anastasia Fleyder
- Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marina Otten
- Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
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Jones LK, Oakley A. Store-and-Forward Teledermatology for Assessing Skin Cancer in 2023: Literature Review. JMIR DERMATOLOGY 2023; 6:e43395. [PMID: 37632914 PMCID: PMC10335330 DOI: 10.2196/43395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of teledermatology for skin lesion assessment has been a recent development, particularly, since the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the ability to assess patients in person. The growing number of studies relating to this area reflects the evolving interest. OBJECTIVE This literature review aims to analyze the available research on store-and-forward teledermatology for skin lesion assessment. METHODS MEDLINE was searched for papers from January 2010 to November 2021. Papers were searched for assessment of time management, effectiveness, and image quality. RESULTS The reported effectiveness of store-and-forward teledermatology for skin lesion assessment produces heterogeneous results likely due to significant procedure variations. Most studies show high accuracy and diagnostic concordance of teledermatology compared to in-person dermatologist assessment and histopathology. This is improved through the use of teledermoscopy. Most literature shows that teledermatology reduces time to advice and definitive treatment compared to outpatient clinic assessment. CONCLUSIONS Overall, teledermatology offers a comparable standard of effectiveness to in-person assessment. It can save significant time in expediting advice and management. Image quality and inclusion of dermoscopy have a considerable bearing on the overall effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda Oakley
- Te Whatu Ora Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
- The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Bhave P, Wong J, McInerney-Leo A, Cust AE, Lawn C, Janda M, Mar VJ. Management of cutaneous melanoma in Australia: a narrative review. Med J Aust 2023; 218:426-431. [PMID: 37120760 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Prachi Bhave
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
- Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC
| | | | - Aideen McInerney-Leo
- Dermatology Research Centre, University of Queensland Diamantina Institute for Cancer Immunology and Metabolic Medicine, Brisbane, QLD
- Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging, Brisbane, QLD
| | - Anne E Cust
- Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging, Brisbane, QLD
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Sydney, NSW
| | - Craig Lawn
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Sydney, NSW
- Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging, Brisbane, QLD
| | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD
| | - Victoria J Mar
- Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC
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Rodriguez-Acevedo AJ, O'Hara M, Koh U, Betz-Stablein B, Horsham C, Soyer HP, Janda M. Can people take high-quality images using mobile dermatoscopes at home on easy-to-see and difficult-to-see body areas? J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023; 37:e155-e157. [PMID: 36197952 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Astrid J Rodriguez-Acevedo
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Montana O'Hara
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Uyen Koh
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brigid Betz-Stablein
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Caitlin Horsham
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - H Peter Soyer
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Dermatology Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Monika Janda
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Ludlow K, Merideth D, Haynes W, Shrivastava V. Relevant Dermatoses Among U.S. Military Service Members: An Operational Review of Management Strategies and Telemedicine Utilization. Cureus 2023; 15:e33274. [PMID: 36741595 PMCID: PMC9891841 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.33274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite skin being the largest and most exposed organ of the human body, skin issues can be challenging to diagnose in deployed military service members. Common reasons deployed soldiers seek dermatological evaluation include infections, inflammatory skin conditions, and skin growth. Due to limited access to specialized care in deployed settings, dermatological conditions are undertreated and underdiagnosed. As a result, dermatological conditions are a leading contributor to decreased combat effectiveness among deployed medical forces. To lessen the burden of dermatological diseases, military providers should promptly identify operational skin diseases and alleviate modifiable barriers faced by service members. In a post-pandemic era with novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and monkeypox infections, the duty to effectively treat operational skin lesions is ever important. The need for military dermatologists continues to rise as the global landscape continues to evolve with unprecedented infections and increased bioterrorism threats. Teledermatology offers many solutions to mitigate the high demand for dermatologists during pandemics. Dermatological consultations account for the highest number of telemedicine visits in the US Military Health System (MHS). As such, increased utilization of teledermatology will reduce infection-related dermatological sequelae and prevent the medical evacuation of service members from military operations. This review collates and categorizes relevant dermatological conditions encountered among deployed personnel. This report outlines the standard of care and modified treatments recommended according to potential barriers faced in operational settings.
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Drabarek D, Habgood E, Ackermann D, Hersch J, Janda M, Morton RL, Guitera P, Soyer HP, Collgros H, Cust AE, Saw RP, Emery J, Mar V, Dieng M, Azzi A, Lilleyman A, Bell KJ. Perspectives and Experiences of Patient-Led Melanoma Surveillance Using Digital Technologies From Clinicians Involved in the MEL-SELF Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial: Qualitative Interview Study. JMIR DERMATOLOGY 2022; 5:e40623. [PMID: 37632906 PMCID: PMC10334935 DOI: 10.2196/40623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growing number of melanoma patients who need long-term surveillance increasingly exceeds the capacity of the dermatology workforce, particularly outside of metropolitan areas. Digital technologies that enable patients to perform skin self-examination and send dermoscopic images of lesions of concern to a dermatologist (mobile teledermoscopy) are a potential solution. If these technologies and the remote delivery of melanoma surveillance are to be incorporated into routine clinical practice, they need to be accepted by clinicians providing melanoma care, such as dermatologists and general practitioners (GPs). OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore perceptions of potential benefits and harms of mobile teledermoscopy, as well as experiences with this technology, among clinicians participating in a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) of patient-led melanoma surveillance. METHODS This qualitative study was nested within a pilot RCT conducted at dermatologist and skin specialist GP-led melanoma clinics in New South Wales, Australia. We conducted semistructured interviews with 8 of the total 11 clinicians who were involved in the trial, including 4 dermatologists (3 provided teledermatology, 2 were treating clinicians), 1 surgical oncologist, and 3 GPs with qualifications in skin cancer screening (the remaining 3 GPs declined an interview). Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data with reference to the concepts of "medical overuse" and "high-value care." RESULTS Clinicians identified several potential benefits, including increased access to dermatology services, earlier detection of melanomas, reassurance for patients between scheduled visits, and a reduction in unnecessary clinic visits. However, they also identified some potential concerns regarding the use of the technology and remote monitoring that could result in diagnostic uncertainty. These included poor image quality, difficulty making assessments from a 2D digital image (even if good quality), insufficient clinical history provided, and concern that suspicious lesions may have been missed by the patient. Clinicians thought that uncertainty arising from these concerns, together with perceived potential medicolegal consequences from missing a diagnosis, might lead to increases in unnecessary clinic visits and procedures. Strategies suggested for achieving high-value care included managing clinical uncertainty to decrease the potential for medical overuse and ensuring optimal placement of patient-led teledermoscopy within existing clinical care pathways to increase the potential for benefits. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians were enthusiastic about the potential and experienced benefits of mobile teledermoscopy; however, managing clinical uncertainty will be necessary to achieve these benefits in clinical care outside of trial contexts and minimize potential harms from medical overuse. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616001716459; https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=371865.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy Drabarek
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emily Habgood
- Centre for Cancer Research, Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deonna Ackermann
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jolyn Hersch
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rachael L Morton
- National Health and Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pascale Guitera
- Melanoma Institute Australia, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - H Peter Soyer
- Frazer Institute, University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Australia
- Dermatology Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Helena Collgros
- Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anne E Cust
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Melanoma Institute Australia, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robyn Pm Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Melanoma Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jon Emery
- Centre for Cancer Research, Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Victoria Mar
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- National Health and Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Azzi
- Newcastle Skin Check, Newcastle, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Katy Jl Bell
- School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Lee C, Witkowski A, Żychowska M, Ludzik J. The role of mobile teledermoscopy in skin cancer triage and management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2022; 89:347-352. [PMID: 36688890 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_118_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The unprecedented onset of the COVID-19 crisis poses a significant challenge to all fields of medicine, including dermatology. Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, a stark decline in new skin cancer diagnoses has been reported by countries worldwide. One of the greatest challenges during the pandemic has been the reduced access to face-to-face dermatologic evaluation and non-urgent procedures, such as biopsies or surgical excisions. Teledermatology is a well-integrated alternative when face-to-face dermatological assistance is not available. Teledermoscopy, an extension of teledermatology, comprises consulting dermoscopic images to improve the remote assessment of pigmented and non-pigmented lesions when direct visualisation of lesions is difficult. One of teledermoscopy's greatest strengths may be its utility as a triage and monitoring tool, which is critical in the early detection of skin cancer, as it can reduce the number of unnecessary referrals, wait times, and the cost of providing and receiving dermatological care. Mobile teledermoscopy may act as a communication tool between medical practitioners and patients. By using their smartphone (mobile phone) patients can monitor a suspicious skin lesion identified by their medical practitioner, or alternatively self-detect concerning lesions and forward valuable dermoscopic images for remote medical evaluation. Several mobile applications that allow users to photograph suspicious lesions with their smartphones and have them evaluated using artificial intelligence technology have recently emerged. With the growing popularity of mobile apps and consumer-involved healthcare, this will likely be a key component of skin cancer screening in the years to come. However, most of these applications apply artificial intelligence technology to assess clinical images rather than dermoscopic images, which may lead to lower diagnostic accuracy. Incorporating the direct-to-consumer mobile dermoscopy model in combination with mole-scanning artificial intelligence as a mobile app may be the future of skin cancer detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States
| | - Alexander Witkowski
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Magdalena Żychowska
- Department of Dermatology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Joanna Ludzik
- Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon, United States
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Murchie P, Constable L, Hall S, Brant W, Allan J, Johnston M, Masthoff J, Lee A, Treweek S, Ayansina D, Proby C, Rahman K, Walter F, Burrows N, Durrani A, Maclennan G. The Achieving Self-directed Integrated Cancer Aftercare Intervention for Detection of Recurrent and Second Primary Melanoma in Survivors of Melanoma: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Cancer 2022; 8:e37539. [PMID: 36074560 PMCID: PMC9501683 DOI: 10.2196/37539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma is common with increasing incidence. Guidelines recommend monthly total skin self-examinations (TSSEs) by survivors to detect recurrent and new primary melanomas. TSSE is underperformed despite evidence of benefit. OBJECTIVE This study compares the effect on psychological well-being and TSSE practice of a self-directed digital intervention with treatment as usual in patients treated for a first stage 0 to IIC primary cutaneous melanoma within the preceding 60 months. METHODS This randomized clinical trial was conducted at 2 UK National Health Service hospitals (Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Grampian, and Addenbrooke's, Cambridge). Adults (≥18 years) diagnosed with a first 0 to IIC primary cutaneous melanoma were randomized to receive Achieving Self-directed Integrated Cancer Aftercare (ASICA), a tablet-based intervention prompting and supporting TSSE in survivors of melanoma, or to usual care. The hypothesis was that ASICA would increase TSSE practice in users affected by melanoma and compared with controls without affecting psychological well-being. The main primary outcomes were melanoma worry (Melanoma Worry Scale), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and quality of life (EQ-5D-5L) as well as secondary outcomes collected using postal questionnaires 3, 6, and 12 months following randomization. RESULTS A total of 240 recruits were randomized (1:1) into the ASICA (n=121, 50.4%) or control (n=119, 49.6%) groups. There were no significant differences between groups for melanoma worry at 12 months (mean difference: 0.12, 95% CI -0.6 to 0.84; P=.74), 3 months (0.23, 95% CI -0.31 to 0.78; P=.40), or 6 months (-0.1, 95% CI -0.7 to 0.51; P=.76). The ASICA group had lower anxiety scores at 12 months (-0.54, 95% CI -1.31 to 0.230; P=.17), 3 months (-0.13, 95% CI -0.79 to 0.54; P=.71), and significantly at 6 months (-1.00, 95% CI -1.74 to -0.26; P=.009). Depression scores were similar, being lower at 12 months (-0.44, 95% CI -1.11 to 0.23; P=.20) and 3 months (-0.24, 95% CI -0.84 to 0.35; P=.42) but only significantly lower at 6 months (-0.77, 95% CI -1.41 to -0.12; P=.02). The ASICA group had significantly higher quality of life scores at 12 months (0.044, 95% CI 0.003-0.085; P=.04) and 6 months (0.070, 95% CI 0.032-0.107; P<.001) and nonsignificantly at 3 months (0.024, 95% CI -0.006 to 0.054; P=.11). ASICA users reported significantly more regular (>5) TSSEs during the study year and significantly higher levels of self-efficacy in conducting TSSE. They also reported significantly higher levels of planning and intention to perform TSSE in the future. CONCLUSIONS Using ASICA for 12 months does not increase melanoma worry, can reduce anxiety and depression, and may improve quality of life. ASICA has the potential to improve the well-being and vigilance of survivors of melanoma and enable the benefits of regular TSSE. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03328247; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03328247. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s13063-019-3453-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Murchie
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Lynda Constable
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Hall
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | | | - Julia Allan
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Marie Johnston
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Judith Masthoff
- Department of Information and Computing Sciences, Universiteit Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Amanda Lee
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Shaun Treweek
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Dolapo Ayansina
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Proby
- Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | | | - Fiona Walter
- Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine and Institute of Population Health Sciences, London, United Kingdom
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel Burrows
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Amer Durrani
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Graeme Maclennan
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
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Enhanced deep bottleneck transformer model for skin lesion classification. Biomed Signal Process Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2022.103997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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12
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Medcalf E, Taylor A, Turner R, Espinoza D, Bell KJL. Can patient-led surveillance detect subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas and reduce the need for routinely scheduled follow up? Statistical analysis plan for the MEL-SELF randomised controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2022; 117:106761. [PMID: 35439647 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.106761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The MEL-SELF trial is a randomised controlled trial of patient-led surveillance compared to clinician-led surveillance in people treated for localised cutaneous melanoma (stage 0, I, II). The primary trial aim is to determine if patient led-surveillance compared to clinician-led surveillance increases the proportion of participants who are diagnosed with a new primary or recurrent melanoma at a fast-tracked unscheduled clinic visit. The secondary outcomes include time to diagnosis of any skin cancer, psychosocial outcomes, acceptability, and resource use. OBJECTIVE The objective of this report is to outline and publish the pre-determined statistical analysis plan before the database lock and the start of analysis. METHODS/DESIGN The statistical analysis plan describes the overall analysis principles, including how participants will be included in each analysis, the presentation of the results, adjustments for covariates, the primary and secondary outcomes, and their respective analyses. In addition, we present the planned sensitivity and subgroup analyses. A separate analysis plan will be published for health economic outcomes. RESULTS The MEL-SELF statistical analysis plan has been designed to minimize bias in estimating effects of the intervention on primary and secondary outcomes. By pre-specifying analyses, we ensure the study's integrity and believability while enabling the reproducibility of the final analysis. CONCLUSION This detailed statistical analysis plan will help to ensure transparency of reporting of results from the MEL-SELF trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12621000176864. Registered 18 February 2021, https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12621000176864.aspx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Medcalf
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Aiya Taylor
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robin Turner
- Biostatistics Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David Espinoza
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katy J L Bell
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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13
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Mars M, Scott RE. Electronic Patient-Generated Health Data for Healthcare. Digit Health 2022. [DOI: 10.36255/exon-publications-digital-health-patient-generated-health-data] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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14
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Marchetti MA, Sar-Graycar L, Dusza SW, Nanda JK, Kurtansky N, Rotemberg VM, Hay JL. Prevalence and Age-Related Patterns in Health Information-Seeking Behaviors and Technology Use Among Skin Cancer Survivors: Survey Study. JMIR DERMATOLOGY 2022; 5:e36256. [PMID: 36776536 PMCID: PMC9910806 DOI: 10.2196/36256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Information is an unmet need among cancer survivors. There is a paucity of population-based data examining the health information-seeking behaviors and attitudes of skin cancer survivors. Objective We aimed to identify the prevalence and patterns of health information-seeking behaviors and attitudes among skin cancer survivors across age groups. Methods We analyzed population-based data from the 2019 Health Information National Trends Survey 5 (Cycle 3). Results The 5438 respondents included 346 (6.4%) skin cancer survivors (mean age 65.8 years); of the 346 skin cancer survivors, the majority were White (96.4% [weighted percentages]), and 171 (47.8%) were men. Most reported having ever looked for health- (86.1%) or cancer-related (76.5%) information; 28.2% stated their last search took a lot of effort, and 21.6% were frustrated. The internet was most often cited as being the first source that was recently used for health or medical information (45.6%). Compared to skin cancer survivors younger than 65 years old, those 65 years of age or older were more likely to see a doctor first for important health information (≥65 years: 68.3%;<65 years: 36.2%; P<.001) and less likely to have health and wellness apps (≥65 years: 26.4%; <65 years: 54.0%, P=.10), to have watched a health-related YouTube video (≥65 years: 13.3%; <65 years: 27.4%; P=.02), and to have used electronic means to look for information (≥65 years: 61.4%;<65 years: 82.3%, P<.001). Conclusions Searches for health information are common among skin cancer survivors, but behaviors and attitudes are associated with age, which highlights the importance of access to doctors and personalized information sources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stephen W Dusza
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Japbani K Nanda
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
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15
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Niu Z, Bhurosy T, Heckman CJ. Digital interventions for promoting sun protection and skin self-examination behaviors: A systematic review. Prev Med Rep 2022; 26:101709. [PMID: 35529530 PMCID: PMC9073560 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
A considerable number of digital interventions for skin cancer prevention have been evaluated. Most skin cancer digital interventions focus on sun protection-related outcomes. Most interventions use web-based digital technology (websites, webpages, mobile apps) rather than videos, emails or text messages alone as the delivery platform. Multi-component digital interventions are effective in promoting sun protection and skin self-examination. Almost all studies found digital interventions to be equally or more effective compared to non-digital interventions.
The skin cancer incidence rate has been rising, and digital health interventions can promote skin cancer prevention and detection behaviors. A systematic review was conducted to investigate the outcomes of digital interventions that promote sun protection and skin self-examination (SSE). This review examined studies that utilized randomized controlled designs or quasi-experiments, included outcomes related to sun safety or SSE, employed at least one digital platform, and were published in English from January 2000 to October 2020. A total of 62 studies were included in the review. Digital modalities included web-based (e.g., websites) alone (n = 29), mobile-based (e.g., mobile apps) alone (n = 12), game-based (n = 1), emails or text messages alone (n = 8), videos alone (n = 6), social media (n = 3), both text messages and mobile apps (n = 2), or both text messages and video (n = 1). Most studies (n = 44) only evaluated sun protection-related outcomes, seven studies assessed SSE outcomes only, nine studies examined both, and two assessed other related outcomes. Digital interventions are effective compared to non-intervention control conditions in promoting sun safety or SSE. Almost all studies found digital interventions to be equally or more effective compared to non-digital interventions. This review suggests that although the digital interventions varied, they showed promising effects on improving sun protection or SSE outcomes. Future research should include more sophisticated phase-based and rigorous longitudinal research designs, additional investigation of social media and other newer technologies, as well as more detailed reporting of methods and results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaomeng Niu
- Section of Behavioral Sciences, Division of Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, United States
- Corresponding author.
| | - Trishnee Bhurosy
- Department of Population Health, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Carolyn J. Heckman
- Section of Behavioral Sciences, Division of Medical Oncology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, United States
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16
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Ackermann DM, Dieng M, Medcalf E, Jenkins MC, van Kemenade CH, Janda M, Turner RM, Cust AE, Morton RL, Irwig L, Guitera P, Soyer HP, Mar V, Hersch JK, Low D, Low C, Saw RPM, Scolyer RA, Drabarek D, Espinoza D, Azzi A, Lilleyman AM, Smit AK, Murchie P, Thompson JF, Bell KJL. Assessing the Potential for Patient-led Surveillance After Treatment of Localized Melanoma (MEL-SELF): A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Dermatol 2022; 158:33-42. [PMID: 34817543 PMCID: PMC8771298 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2021.4704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Patient-led surveillance is a promising new model of follow-up care following excision of localized melanoma. OBJECTIVE To determine whether patient-led surveillance in patients with prior localized primary cutaneous melanoma is as safe, feasible, and acceptable as clinician-led surveillance. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This was a pilot for a randomized clinical trial at 2 specialist-led clinics in metropolitan Sydney, Australia, and a primary care skin cancer clinic managed by general practitioners in metropolitan Newcastle, Australia. The participants were 100 patients who had been treated for localized melanoma, owned a smartphone, had a partner to assist with skin self-examination (SSE), and had been routinely attending scheduled follow-up visits. The study was conducted from November 1, 2018, to January 17, 2020, with analysis performed from September 1, 2020, to November 15, 2020. INTERVENTION Participants were randomized (1:1) to 6 months of patient-led surveillance (the intervention comprised usual care plus reminders to perform SSE, patient-performed dermoscopy, teledermatologist assessment, and fast-tracked unscheduled clinic visits) or clinician-led surveillance (the control was usual care). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was the proportion of eligible and contacted patients who were randomized. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported outcomes (eg, SSE knowledge, attitudes, and practices, psychological outcomes, other health care use) and clinical outcomes (eg, clinic visits, skin surgeries, subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma). RESULTS Of 326 patients who were eligible and contacted, 100 (31%) patients (mean [SD] age, 58.7 [12.0] years; 53 [53%] men) were randomized to patient-led (n = 49) or clinician-led (n = 51) surveillance. Data were available on patient-reported outcomes for 66 participants and on clinical outcomes for 100 participants. Compared with clinician-led surveillance, patient-led surveillance was associated with increased SSE frequency (odds ratio [OR], 3.5; 95% CI, 0.9 to 14.0) and thoroughness (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 0.8 to 5.7), had no detectable adverse effect on psychological outcomes (fear of cancer recurrence subscale score; mean difference, -1.3; 95% CI, -3.1 to 0.5), and increased clinic visits (risk ratio [RR], 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.1), skin lesion excisions (RR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.6 to 2.0), and subsequent melanoma diagnoses and subsequent melanoma diagnoses (risk difference, 10%; 95% CI, -2% to 23%). New primary melanomas and 1 local recurrence were diagnosed in 8 (16%) of the participants in the intervention group, including 5 (10%) ahead of routinely scheduled visits; and in 3 (6%) of the participants in the control group, with none (0%) ahead of routinely scheduled visits (risk difference, 10%; 95% CI, 2% to 19%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This pilot of a randomized clinical trial found that patient-led surveillance after treatment of localized melanoma appears to be safe, feasible, and acceptable. Experiences from this pilot study have prompted improvements to the trial processes for the larger trial of the same intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION http://anzctr.org.au Identifier: ACTRN12616001716459.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deonna M. Ackermann
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ellie Medcalf
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marisa C. Jenkins
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Robin M. Turner
- Biostatistics Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Anne E. Cust
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachael L. Morton
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Les Irwig
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pascale Guitera
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - H. Peter Soyer
- Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Victoria Mar
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jolyn K. Hersch
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Donald Low
- Cancer Voices New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cynthia Low
- Cancer Voices New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robyn P. M. Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard A. Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- New South Wales Health Pathology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dorothy Drabarek
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Espinoza
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony Azzi
- Newcastle Skin Check, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Amelia K. Smit
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Murchie
- Academic Primary Care Research Group, Division of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - John F. Thompson
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katy J. L. Bell
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Skudalski L, Waldman R, Kerr PE, Grant-Kels JM. Melanoma: How and When to Consider Clinical Diagnostic Technologies. J Am Acad Dermatol 2021; 86:503-512. [PMID: 34915058 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.06.901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In response to rising rates of melanoma worldwide, novel non-invasive melanoma detection techniques are emerging to facilitate the early detection of melanoma and decrease unnecessary biopsies of benign pigmented lesions. Because they often report similar study findings, it may be difficult to determine how best to incorporate these technologies into clinical practice based on their supporting studies alone. As an expansion of the recent article by Fried et al.1, which reviewed the clinical data supporting these non-invasive melanoma detection techniques, the first article in this continuing medical education series provides practical advice on how and when to use various non-invasive melanoma detection techniques into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Skudalski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Reid Waldman
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Philip E Kerr
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Jane M Grant-Kels
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA; Department of Dermatology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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18
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Ibrahim AE, Magdy M, Khalaf EM, Mostafa A, Arafa A. Teledermatology in the time of COVID-19. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e15000. [PMID: 34714575 PMCID: PMC8646275 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.15000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The enormous spread of the novel Corona virus disease (COVID-19) represents a challenge to dermatological practice. Accumulating evidence has suggested a possible role of teledermatology in facing this challenge. In this article, we aimed to give a general overview of teledermatology in terms of models of practice, modes of delivery, advantages, limitations, ethical considerations and legislative challenges as well as discussing, using examples from literature, how dermatological practice can benefit from teledermatology during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Teledermatology could be an accessible, accurate and cost-effective substitute for conventional face-to-face dermatological consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, teledermatology practice needs updated legislation and guidelines. More efforts should be done to encourage dermatologists, especially in underserved communities, to provide teledermatology services. Ethical issues and data security related to teledermatology have to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Elsayed Ibrahim
- Department of NeuropsychiatryFaculty of MedicineAlexandria UniversityAlexandriaEgypt
| | - Mayar Magdy
- Barnet HospitalThe Royal Free London NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Eslam M. Khalaf
- Department of Critical MedicineFaculty of MedicineAlexandria UniversityAlexandriaEgypt
| | - Alshimaa Mostafa
- Department of DermatologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Department of DermatologyFaculty of MedicineBeni‐Suef UniversityBeni‐SuefEgypt
| | - Ahmed Arafa
- Department of Public HealthGraduate School of MedicineOsaka UniversitySuitaJapan
- Department of Public HealthFaculty of MedicineBeni‐Suef UniversityBeni‐SuefEgypt
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19
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Remote Skin Cancer Diagnosis: Adding Images to Electronic Referrals Is More Efficient Than Wait-Listing for a Nurse-Led Imaging Clinic. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225828. [PMID: 34830982 PMCID: PMC8616500 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Skin cancer is a significant cause of death and disability, particularly in New Zealand. Expert diagnosis reduces unnecessary excision of benign lesions, reduces patient anxiety, and allows early identification of skin cancer, particularly of melanoma. The study assessed an electronic referral pathway for teledermatology—diagnosing skin lesions remotely using a standardised template with regional, close-up, and dermoscopic images—and compared this to scheduled nurse-led teledermoscopy clinics. A dermatology opinion was reached more rapidly with comparable efficacy when referrals include good quality images, compared to nurse-led imaging clinics. Abstract We undertook a retrospective comparison of two teledermatology pathways that provide diagnostic and management advice for suspected skin cancers, to evaluate the time from referral to diagnosis and its concordance with histology. Primary Care doctors could refer patients to either the Virtual Lesion Clinic (VLC), a nurse-led community teledermoscopy clinic or, more recently, to the Suspected Skin Cancer (SSC) pathway, which requires them to attach regional, close-up, and dermoscopic images. The primary objective of this study was to determine the comparative time course between the SSC pathway and VLC. Secondary objectives included comparative diagnostic concordance, skin lesion classification, and evaluation of missed skin lesions during subsequent follow-up. VLC referrals from July to December 2016 and 2020 were compared to SSC referrals from July to December 2020. 408 patients with 682 lesions in the VLC cohort were compared with 480 patients with 548 lesions from the 2020 SSC cohort, matched for age, sex, and ethnicity, including histology where available. Median time (SD) from referral to receipt of teledermatology advice was four (2.8) days and 50 (43.0) days for the SSC and VLC cohorts, respectively (p < 0.001). Diagnostic concordance between teledermatologist and histopathologist for benign versus malignant lesions was 70% for 114 lesions in the SSC cohort, comparable to the VLC cohort (71% of 122 lesions). Referrals from primary care, where skin lesions were imaged with variable devices and quality resulted in faster specialist advice with similar diagnostic performance compared to high-quality imaging at nurse-led specialist dermoscopy clinics.
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20
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Snoswell CL, Whitty JA, Caffery LJ, Kho J, Horsham C, Loescher LJ, Vagenas D, Gillespie N, Soyer HP, Janda M. Consumer Preference and Willingness to Pay for Direct-to-Consumer Mobile Teledermoscopy Services in Australia. Dermatology 2021; 238:358-367. [PMID: 34515087 DOI: 10.1159/000517257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate consumer preference and willingness to pay for mobile teledermoscopy services in Australia. METHODS Consumers who were taking part in a randomised controlled trial comparing mobile teledermoscopy and skin self-examination were asked to complete a survey which incorporated a discrete choice experiment (DCE) and a contingent valuation question. Responses were used to determine their willingness to pay for mobile teledermoscopy services in Australia and their overall service preferences. RESULTS The 199 consumers who responded were 71% female and had a mean age of 42 years (range, 18-73). The DCE results showed that consumers prefer a trained medical professional to be involved in their skin cancer screening. Consumers were willing to pay AUD 41 to change from a general practitioner reviewing their lesions in-person to having a dermatologist reviewing the teledermoscopy images. Additionally, they were willing to pay for services that had shorter waiting times, that reduced the time away from their usual activities, and that have higher accuracy and lower likelihood of unnecessary excision of a skin lesion. When asked directly about their willingness to pay for a teledermoscopy service using a contingent valuation question, the majority (73%) of consumers selected the lowest two value brackets of AUD 1-20 or AUD 21-40. CONCLUSION Consumers are willing to pay out of pocket to access services with attributes such as a dermatologist review, improved accuracy, and fewer excisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Centaine L Snoswell
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Whitty
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Health Economics Group, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Liam J Caffery
- Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Joanna Kho
- UQ Business School, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Caitlin Horsham
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lois J Loescher
- College of Nursing, Arizona Cancer Center, and Skin Cancer Institute at The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Dimitrios Vagenas
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Directorate, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole Gillespie
- UQ Business School, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - H Peter Soyer
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Dermatology Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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21
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Ackermann DM, Smit AK, Janda M, van Kemenade CH, Dieng M, Morton RL, Turner RM, Cust AE, Irwig L, Hersch JK, Guitera P, Soyer HP, Mar V, Saw RPM, Low D, Low C, Drabarek D, Espinoza D, Emery J, Murchie P, Thompson JF, Scolyer RA, Azzi A, Lilleyman A, Bell KJL. Can patient-led surveillance detect subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas and reduce the need for routinely scheduled follow-up? A protocol for the MEL-SELF randomised controlled trial. Trials 2021; 22:324. [PMID: 33947444 PMCID: PMC8096155 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05231-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas might be self-detected if patients are trained to systematically self-examine their skin and have access to timely medical review (patient-led surveillance). Routinely scheduled clinic visits (clinician-led surveillance) is resource-intensive and has not been shown to improve health outcomes; fewer visits may be possible if patient-led surveillance is shown to be safe and effective. The MEL-SELF trial is a randomised controlled trial comparing patient-led surveillance with clinician-led surveillance in people who have been previously treated for localised melanoma. METHODS Stage 0/I/II melanoma patients (n = 600) from dermatology, surgical, or general practice clinics in NSW Australia, will be randomised (1:1) to the intervention (patient-led surveillance, n = 300) or control (usual care, n = 300). Patients in the intervention will undergo a second randomisation 1:1 to polarised (n = 150) or non-polarised (n = 150) dermatoscope. Patient-led surveillance comprises an educational booklet, skin self-examination (SSE) instructional videos; 3-monthly email/SMS reminders to perform SSE; patient-performed dermoscopy with teledermatologist feedback; clinical review of positive teledermoscopy through fast-tracked unscheduled clinic visits; and routinely scheduled clinic visits following each clinician's usual practice. Clinician-led surveillance comprises an educational booklet and routinely scheduled clinic visits following each clinician's usual practice. The primary outcome, measured at 12 months, is the proportion of participants diagnosed with a subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma at an unscheduled clinic visit. Secondary outcomes include time from randomisation to diagnosis (of a subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma and of a new keratinocyte cancer), clinicopathological characteristics of subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas (including AJCC stage), psychological outcomes, and healthcare use. A nested qualitative study will include interviews with patients and clinicians, and a costing study we will compare costs from a societal perspective. We will compare the technical performance of two different models of dermatoscope (polarised vs non-polarised). DISCUSSION The findings from this study may inform guidance on evidence-based follow-up care, that maximises early detection of subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma and patient wellbeing, while minimising costs to patients, health systems, and society. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12621000176864 . Registered on 18 February 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deonna M Ackermann
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amelia K Smit
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Cathelijne H van Kemenade
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rachael L Morton
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robin M Turner
- Biostatistics Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anne E Cust
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Les Irwig
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jolyn K Hersch
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pascale Guitera
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - H Peter Soyer
- Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Department of Dermatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Victoria Mar
- Victorian Melanoma Service, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robyn P M Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Division of Surgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Dorothy Drabarek
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Espinoza
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jon Emery
- Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter Murchie
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - John F Thompson
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Division of Surgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Richard A Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Azzi
- Newcastle Skin Check, Newcastle, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alister Lilleyman
- Newcastle Skin Check, Newcastle, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katy J L Bell
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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22
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Koh U, Betz-Stablein B, O'Hara M, Horsham C, Curiel-Lewandrowski C, Soyer HP, Janda M. Development of a Checklist Tool to Assess the Quality of Skin Lesion Images Acquired by Consumers Using Sequential Mobile Teledermoscopy. Dermatology 2021; 238:27-34. [PMID: 33849022 DOI: 10.1159/000515158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile teledermoscopy is an emerging technology that involves imaging and digitally sending dermoscopic images of skin lesions to a clinician for assessment. High-quality, consistent images are required for accurate telediagnoses when monitoring lesions over time. To date there are no tools to assess the quality of sequential images taken by consumers using mobile teledermoscopy. The purpose of this study was to develop a tool to assess the quality of images acquired by consumers. METHODS Participants imaged skin lesions that they felt were concerning at baseline, 1-, and 2-months. A checklist to assess the quality of consumer sequential imaging of skin lesions was developed based on the International Skin Imaging Collaboration guidelines. A scale was implemented to grade the quality of the images: 0 (low) to 18 (very high). Intra- and inter-reliability of the checklist was assessed using Bland-Altman analysis. Using this checklist, the consistency with which 85 sets of images were scored by 2 evaluators were compared using Kappa statistics. Items with a low Kappa value <0.4 were removed. RESULTS After reliability testing, 5 of the items were removed due to low Kappa values (<0.4) and the final checklist included 13 items surveying: lesion selection; image orientation; lighting; field of view; focus and depth of view. Participants had a mean age of 41 years (range 19-73), and 67% were female. Most participants (84%, n = 71/85) were able to select and image the correct lesion over time for both the dermoscopic and overview images. Younger participants (<40 years old) scored significantly higher (8.1 ± 2.1) on the imaging checklist compared to older participants (7.1 ± 2.4; p = 0.037). Participants had most difficulty with consistent image orientation. CONCLUSIONS This checklist could be used as a triage tool to filter images acquired by consumers prior to telediagnosis evaluation, which would improve the efficiency and accuracy of teledermatology and teledermoscopy processes. It may also be used to provide feedback to the consumers to improve image acquisition over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uyen Koh
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brigid Betz-Stablein
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Montana O'Hara
- Centre of Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Caitlin Horsham
- Centre of Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Clara Curiel-Lewandrowski
- Department of Dermatology and the University of Arizona Cancer Center Skin Cancer Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - H Peter Soyer
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Dermatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Monika Janda
- Centre of Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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23
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Uppal SK, Beer J, Hadeler E, Gitlow H, Nouri K. The clinical utility of teledermoscopy in the era of telemedicine. Dermatol Ther 2021; 34:e14766. [PMID: 33421232 DOI: 10.1111/dth.14766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Teledermoscopy is a novel diagnostic tool for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of skin disease when direct visualization of lesions is difficult. It is an economically viable option that can complement telehealth visits and that providers can utilize to identify melanocytic lesions and optimize care with diagnostic accuracy comparable to face-to-face (FTF) diagnosis. Teledermoscopy is invaluable in monitoring chronic conditions that require frequent follow-up and treatment optimization. Inclusion of clinical and dermoscopic images has been shown to improve the diagnostic accuracy of teledermatology services, thereby reducing healthcare costs. Teledermoscopy is also non-discriminatory, as diagnostic accuracy is similar in lighter and darker skin types. It has been shown to improve patient access to specialty services and reduce the number of "no-shows" at FTF clinics and length of surgery waiting times. Mobile teledermoscopy is user-friendly, feasible, and economically viable, as inexpensive mobile dermatoscopes have emerged on the market to reduce consumer out-of-pocket costs. Research is limited on teledermoscopy's utility in diagnosing pre-cancerous and cancerous skin lesions in adults, particularly complex pigmented lesions. Further research is recommended to investigate the role of dermoscopic expertise and artificial intelligence on the evaluation of teledermoscopic images.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacob Beer
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Edward Hadeler
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Howard Gitlow
- Miami Herbert Business School, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Keyvan Nouri
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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24
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Walter FM, Emery JD. Further evaluation is required for smartphone-aided diagnosis of skin cancer. LANCET DIGITAL HEALTH 2020; 2:e104-e105. [PMID: 33334573 DOI: 10.1016/s2589-7500(20)30021-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona M Walter
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK.
| | - Jon D Emery
- Department of General Practice and the Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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25
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Toward automated severe pharyngitis detection with smartphone camera using deep learning networks. Comput Biol Med 2020; 125:103980. [PMID: 32871294 PMCID: PMC7440230 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2020.103980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Severe pharyngitis is frequently associated with inflammations caused by streptococcal pharyngitis, which can cause immune-mediated and post-infectious complications. The recent global pandemic of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) encourages the use of telemedicine for patients with respiratory symptoms. This study, therefore, purposes automated detection of severe pharyngitis using a deep learning framework with self-taken throat images. METHODS A dataset composed of two classes of 131 throat images with pharyngitis and 208 normal throat images was collected. Before the training classifier, we constructed a cycle consistency generative adversarial network (CycleGAN) to augment the training dataset. The ResNet50, Inception-v3, and MobileNet-v2 architectures were trained with transfer learning and validated using a randomly selected test dataset. The performance of the models was evaluated based on the accuracy and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC-AUC). RESULTS The CycleGAN-based synthetic images reflected the pragmatic characteristic features of pharyngitis. Using the synthetic throat images, the deep learning model demonstrated a significant improvement in the accuracy of the pharyngitis diagnosis. ResNet50 with GAN-based augmentation showed the best ROC-AUC of 0.988 for pharyngitis detection in the test dataset. In the 4-fold cross-validation using the ResNet50, the highest detection accuracy and ROC-AUC achieved were 95.3% and 0.992, respectively. CONCLUSION The deep learning model for smartphone-based pharyngitis screening allows fast identification of severe pharyngitis with a potential of the timely diagnosis of pharyngitis. In the recent pandemic of COVID-19, this framework will help patients with upper respiratory symptoms to improve convenience in diagnosis and reduce transmission.
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26
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Elmas ÖF, Demirbaş A, Düzayak S, Atasoy M, Türsen Ü, Lotti T. Melanoma and COVID-19: A narrative review focused on treatment. Dermatol Ther 2020; 33:e14101. [PMID: 32734626 DOI: 10.1111/dth.14101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma is the most severe form of skin cancer and its incidence has increased over the past few decades. COVID-19 pandemic affected the diagnosis and management of many diseases including melanoma. In this study, we aimed to provide a review focused on the diagnosis and management of melanoma in the era of COVID-19. A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases using the keywords "melanoma," "coronavirus," "COVID 19," and "SARS-CoV-2." The relevant guidelines published by the European Society for Medical Oncology and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network were also included. The current guidelines recommend that surgical interventions for new diagnosis of invasive primary melanoma, patients with postoperative complications, wide resection and sentinel lymph node biopsy for newly diagnosed T3-T4 melanoma, and planned surgical procedures for patients in neo-adjuvant trials should be prioritized. Surgical treatment of T3/T4 melanomas should be prioritized over T1/T2 melanomas except for any melanoma in which large clinical residual lesion is visible. Adjuvant therapies can be postponed for up to 12 weeks depending on the local center circumstances. PD-1 inhibitor monotherapy is recommended for patients starting immunologic therapy. Combination immunotherapy is still considered suitable for patients with higher-risk disease. Encorafenib and binimetinib should be prioritized for patients requiring BRAF-targeted therapy due to the lower chance of symptoms mimicking COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ömer Faruk Elmas
- Department of Dermatology, Kırşehir Ahi Evran University, Kırşehir, Turkey
| | | | - Serkan Düzayak
- Department of Dermatology, Sakarya Training and Research Hospital, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Atasoy
- Department of Dermatology, Health Science University, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ümit Türsen
- Department of Dermatology, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Torello Lotti
- Department of Dermatology, Guglielmo Marconi University, Rome, Italy
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27
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Young AT, Vora NB, Cortez J, Tam A, Yeniay Y, Afifi L, Yan D, Nosrati A, Wong A, Johal A, Wei ML. The role of technology in melanoma screening and diagnosis. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2020; 34:288-300. [PMID: 32558281 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma presents challenges for timely and accurate diagnosis. Expert panels have issued risk-based screening guidelines, with recommended screening by visual inspection. To assess how recent technology can impact the risk/benefit considerations for melanoma screening, we comprehensively reviewed non-invasive visual-based technologies. Dermoscopy increases lesional diagnostic accuracy for both dermatologists and primary care providers; total body photography and sequential digital dermoscopic imaging also increase diagnostic accuracy, are supported by automated lesion detection and tracking, and may be best suited to use by dermatologists for longitudinal follow-up. Specialized imaging modalities using non-visible light technology have unproven benefit over dermoscopy and can be limited by cost, access, and training requirements. Mobile apps facilitate image capture and lesion tracking. Teledermatology has good concordance with face-to-face consultation and increases access, with increased accuracy using dermoscopy. Deep learning models can surpass dermatologist accuracy, but their clinical utility has yet to be demonstrated. Technology-aided diagnosis may change the calculus of screening; however, well-designed prospective trials are needed to assess the efficacy of these different technologies, alone and in combination to support refinement of guidelines for melanoma screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert T Young
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Niki B Vora
- Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jose Cortez
- Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrew Tam
- Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yildiray Yeniay
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ladi Afifi
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Di Yan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adi Nosrati
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrew Wong
- Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Arjun Johal
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Maria L Wei
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Dermatology Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
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28
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Janda M, Swetter SM, Horsham C, Soyer HP. Virtual melanoma checks during a pandemic. Br J Dermatol 2020; 183:752-753. [PMID: 32471016 PMCID: PMC7300448 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.19255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - S M Swetter
- Department of Dermatology, Pigmented Lesion and Melanoma Program, Stanford University Medical Center and Cancer Institute, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - C Horsham
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - H P Soyer
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Dermatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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29
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Tschandl P, Rinner C, Apalla Z, Argenziano G, Codella N, Halpern A, Janda M, Lallas A, Longo C, Malvehy J, Paoli J, Puig S, Rosendahl C, Soyer HP, Zalaudek I, Kittler H. Human-computer collaboration for skin cancer recognition. Nat Med 2020; 26:1229-1234. [PMID: 32572267 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-0942-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The rapid increase in telemedicine coupled with recent advances in diagnostic artificial intelligence (AI) create the imperative to consider the opportunities and risks of inserting AI-based support into new paradigms of care. Here we build on recent achievements in the accuracy of image-based AI for skin cancer diagnosis to address the effects of varied representations of AI-based support across different levels of clinical expertise and multiple clinical workflows. We find that good quality AI-based support of clinical decision-making improves diagnostic accuracy over that of either AI or physicians alone, and that the least experienced clinicians gain the most from AI-based support. We further find that AI-based multiclass probabilities outperformed content-based image retrieval (CBIR) representations of AI in the mobile technology environment, and AI-based support had utility in simulations of second opinions and of telemedicine triage. In addition to demonstrating the potential benefits associated with good quality AI in the hands of non-expert clinicians, we find that faulty AI can mislead the entire spectrum of clinicians, including experts. Lastly, we show that insights derived from AI class-activation maps can inform improvements in human diagnosis. Together, our approach and findings offer a framework for future studies across the spectrum of image-based diagnostics to improve human-computer collaboration in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Tschandl
- ViDIR Group, Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Rinner
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics and Intelligent Systems (CeMSIIS), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zoe Apalla
- Department of Dermatology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Noel Codella
- IBM T. J. Watson Research Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Allan Halpern
- Dermatology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aimilios Lallas
- Department of Dermatology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Caterina Longo
- Dermatology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Centro Oncologico ad Alta Tecnologia Diagnostica-Dermatologia, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Josep Malvehy
- Dermatology Department, Melanoma Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBER ER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - John Paoli
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Susana Puig
- Dermatology Department, Melanoma Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBER ER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cliff Rosendahl
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - H Peter Soyer
- Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Iris Zalaudek
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Harald Kittler
- ViDIR Group, Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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