Teledermatology: current perspectives

• DOI: 10.2147/shtt.s104305
• Publication Date: 2017-10-05T22:17:11Z
• Authors: João Antonio de Q...; Iago S. Wolff; Laura Defensor Ri...; Maíra Viana Rego ...; Leonardo Teixeira...; Milena Marcolino
• Keywords: Teledermatology

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to update the current status on accuracy, reliability, and clinical outcomes establish barriers perspectives teledermatology strategies. Methods: MEDLINE searched identify relevant studies published until April 2017, supplemented by references from selected articles. Study search selection were performed independent reviewers. Quality assessment performed. Results: Of 2,525 articles retrieved, 45 manuscripts (44 studies, 7,033 patients) included in review, 42 them developed countries. organized three groups, according their content: (n=16), diagnostic accuracy (n=9), reliability (n=19).Teledermatology diagnosis is accurate, with sensitivity specificity ranging 73% 97% 83%, respectively, when compared face-to-face (FTF) and/or histopathological results. agreement between teledermatologists FTF dermatologists showed high variability, fair (kappa 0.35) almost perfect 0.91), but most perfect. Studies that used educational strategies benefits improvement severity skin conditions, adherence therapy, higher quality-of-life score; anxiety reduction patients psoriasis, usual care. Overall, interventions focused at least similar results Interventions connecting specialists or health care practitioners did not show statistical difference rate healing, severity, evolution conditions care, except for one methodological issues. Conclusion: demonstrated good performance comparison conventional consultations accuracy. evidence suggests there no cases, adequately powered subgroups are needed. Keywords: telemedicine, dermatology, impact