Melanoma Detected Through Teledermatology Versus In-Person Visits

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Informatics
• Public Health

Background:

• Early melanoma detection is crucial for survival, but dermatology wait times are long.
• Teledermatology (TD) shows potential for improving access to care and identifying skin malignancies.
• Limited research exists on teledermatology's specific utility in melanoma management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate teledermatology as a triage tool for expediting care for high-risk skin lesions.
• To compare patient demographics and melanoma characteristics between teledermatology and in-person visits.
• To assess the impact of teledermatology on wait times and melanoma prognostic factors.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 836 melanomas biopsied between March 2020 and November 2022.
• Stratification of cases based on initial appointment type: teledermatology vs. in-person visit.
• Evaluation of patient sociodemographic factors and histological characteristics, including Breslow thickness and ulceration.

Main Results:

• Teledermatology patients experienced significantly shorter wait times for initial evaluation and biopsy.
• Melanomas identified via teledermatology exhibited higher Breslow thickness, increased ulceration, and more aggressive subtypes.
• Teledermatology was disproportionately used by younger, non-white patients, and those who self-identified their lesions.

Conclusions:

• Teledermatology can serve as an effective strategy to expedite care for high-risk melanoma lesions.
• Utilizing teledermatology may improve melanoma outcomes by facilitating earlier detection and treatment.
• Teledermatology enhances access to care, particularly for underserved populations and concerning skin lesions.