Dermatoscopy use by US dermatologists: a cross-sectional survey

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Dermatoscopy use is common in Europe and Australia.
• Little is known about its adoption by US dermatologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• Estimate the prevalence of dermatoscopy use among US dermatologists.
• Identify practice characteristics associated with dermatoscopy adoption.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional survey distributed to US fellows of the American Academy of Dermatology.
• Analysis of 3238 completed surveys (38.1% response rate).

Main Results:

• 48% of respondents reported using dermatoscopy.
• Dermatoscopy use was significantly associated with younger age (<50 years), female sex, Northeast practice location, resident teaching involvement, and dermatoscopy training.
• Key barriers to adoption included lack of training (39.7%), lack of interest (32.5%), and time constraints (27.6%).

Conclusions:

• Dermatoscopy adoption in the US is moderate, with about half of surveyed dermatologists utilizing the tool.
• Younger dermatologists, those involved in teaching, and those with specific training are more likely to use dermatoscopy.
• Addressing barriers like training and perceived utility is crucial for increasing dermatoscopy use.