Framework for improved communication: the Dermatology Lexicon Project

A standardized dermatology vocabulary is central to our collective ability to gather clinical information consistently for patient care, to retrieve information for research or disease management, as well as to conduct outcomes analysis for quality improvement. The deficiencies of current classifications have been recognized by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) in their decision to fund the development of a standard complete reference terminology for dermatology. The Dermatology Lexicon will have a major impact both on clinical care and on dermatologic research. Accuracy in medical records and telemedicine communications will be improved. Reliable terminology will provide for more complete and consistent documentation and data aggregation and reporting. In order to create a useful, sustainable lexicon, involvement of the dermatology community is essential.