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3D Total-Body Photography in Patients at High Risk for Melanoma: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
H Peter Soyer1, Dilki Jayasinghe2, Astrid J Rodriguez-Acevedo1,2
1Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland Dermatology Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
JAMA Dermatology
|March 26, 2025
Summary
Three-dimensional total-body photography (3D TBP) combined with sequential digital dermoscopy imaging (SDDI) via teledermatology increased skin lesion excisions in high-risk melanoma patients. This approach detected fewer melanomas compared to usual care alone.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Medical Imaging
- Teledermatology
Background:
- Melanoma risk necessitates vigilant skin lesion monitoring.
- Three-dimensional total-body photography (3D TBP) aids in tracking subtle skin changes.
- Teledermatology offers remote patient monitoring solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare clinical outcomes for high-risk melanoma patients receiving usual care versus usual care plus 3D TBP and sequential digital dermoscopy imaging (SDDI) via teledermatology.
- To evaluate the efficacy of augmented teledermatology in melanoma surveillance.
Main Methods:
- A randomized clinical trial involving adult patients at high risk for melanoma.
- Intervention group received 3D TBP and SDDI every 6 months via teledermatology.
- Control group received usual clinical care and completed online surveys.
- Primary outcome was the number and rate of excisions/biopsies for suspicious lesions.
Main Results:
- The intervention group underwent significantly more excisions and biopsies (5.73 vs. 3.99 lesions per person).
- Fewer melanomas were detected in the intervention group (2.03 per person) compared to the control group (3.62 per person).
- While not statistically significant, the intervention group showed a trend towards lower melanoma detection rates after one year.
Conclusions:
- Adding 3D TBP and SDDI to usual care via teledermatology increases skin lesion excisions and biopsies.
- Further research is needed to compare teledermatology directly against usual care and to explore the role of artificial intelligence.
- The study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting clinical trials in teledermatology settings.
