Diagnostic accuracy and image quality using a digital camera for teledermatology

Objective: The study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of digital photography for dermatologic diagnoses and compare it with in-person diagnoses. Materials and Methods: Patients referred for specialty consultations (n = 308) were recruited from a university dermatology clinic. Patients were examined in-person by one of three board-certified dermatologists who provided clinical diagnoses. Digital photos were obtained on all patients and were evaluated as computer images by a panel of dermatologists. Results: There was 83% concordance between in-person versus digital photo diagnoses. Intradermatologist concordance averaged 84%, and interdermatologist concordance averaged 81%. Decision confidence was rated as 'very definite' to 'definite' 62% of the time. Concordance with biopsy results was achieved in 76% of the cases. Image sharpness and color quality were rated 'good' to 'excellent' 83% and 93% of the time, respectively. Conclusion: Digital photography for store-and-forward teledermatology produces high-quality images and diagnostic concordance rates that compare favorably with in-person clinical diagnoses.