Teledermatology appears adequate for most paediatric dermatological issues

Takeaway

• 62% of dermatological lesions experienced by paediatric patients were successfully addressed by teledermatology without need for an in-person visit, according to a cross-sectional study.

Why this matters

• Teledermatology can help improve access for patients who require in-person care.

Key results

• 62% of lesions were referred back to the primary care paediatrician, 37% were referred to an in-person dermatologist, and 1% were referred to biopsy.
• 54% of patients were referred back to the primary care paediatrician, 45% were referred to in-person dermatology, and 1% were referred to biopsy.
• The mean waiting time for an in-person visit was reduced by 78% (mean, 6.7 vs 1.5 months).
• Benign tumours were the most common cause for referral to biopsy.
• Acne and atopic dermatitis were the most common causes for referral to a dermatologist.

Study design

• 6879 patients with 10,126 lesions were assessed by teledermatology and kept at primary care attention, referred to an in-person dermatologist, or referred for biopsy.
• Funding: None.

Limitations

• Cross-sectional, retrospective study design.