Store-and-Forward Teledermatology for Assessing Skin Cancer in 2023: Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Informatics
• Digital Health

Background:

• Teledermatology has gained prominence for skin lesion assessment, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on in-person consultations.
• Growing research highlights the increasing interest and development in teledermatology applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a literature review analyzing store-and-forward teledermatology for skin lesion assessment.
• Evaluate research on time management, effectiveness, and image quality in teledermatology.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of MEDLINE from January 2010 to November 2021.
• Analysis focused on studies assessing time management, effectiveness, and image quality.

Main Results:

• Store-and-forward teledermatology shows high accuracy and diagnostic concordance compared to in-person assessments and histopathology.
• Teledermoscopy significantly enhances diagnostic accuracy.
• Teledermatology generally reduces the time to receive advice and initiate treatment.

Conclusions:

• Teledermatology provides effectiveness comparable to traditional in-person dermatological assessments.
• It significantly expedites patient advice and management timelines.
• Image quality and the use of dermoscopy are critical factors influencing teledermatology's overall effectiveness.