Can AI Diagnose Dermatology Concerns? Experts Weigh In

Skin conditions, particularly malignant ones, need early detection. But with the average wait time to see a dermatologist continually increasing and the financial barrier for many, it’s no surprise people are seeking alternatives.

One such option that is gaining traction is artificial intelligence (AI). You’ve likely encountered skin diagnosis apps promising instant results. But how reliable are these apps?

Below are expert insights.

Firstly, there is no substitute for seeing a specialist face-to-face. A dermatologist has over 12 years of medical training and is the best option for any skin concerns. Like any good tool, AI can certainly help with pre-diagnosis and possible treatment options. 

Potential Benefits of AI in Dermatology

Potential Accuracy

One of the most promising aspects of AI in dermatology is its potential for accuracy in diagnosing skin cancers.

For instance, a study by Stanford University showcased an AI model trained on a dataset of 129,450 clinical skin images representing 2,032 different diseases. The model learned directly from these images, using only pixel and disease label information.

The AI model showed comparable accuracy to board-certified dermatologists when asked to identify melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.

Enhanced Analysis

Another study ​aimed to find patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) using artificial intelligence from electronic health records (EHRs) for genetic studies. 

The researchers developed a machine learning algorithm for an AI model using information from EHRs, including structured data (codes) and unstructured data (text from doctor’s notes). The model showed high accuracy in identifying patients with AD (high positive predictive value and sensitivity).

In essence, this research shows that AI can effectively sift through patient records to accurately identify those with a specific condition.

Accessibility

One of the most appealing aspects of AI in dermatology is increased accessibility. AI-powered smartphone apps could revolutionise skin care by providing an initial risk assessment for various skin conditions, which could be particularly beneficial for individuals in remote areas or those facing financial barriers to dermatological care. 

Imagine being able to take a photo of a suspicious mole and receive an immediate assessment, potentially prompting a timely referral to a healthcare professional.

Challenges and Limitations of AI in Dermatology

Lack of External Validity

While AI models have shown promise in diagnosing skin conditions, their generalisability to diverse patient populations is a significant challenge. Many AI models are trained on specific datasets that may not accurately represent the global population.

For instance, skin tone, age, and geographic location can influence the appearance of skin lesions, and AI models may not be equipped to handle this variation.

Risk of Missed Diagnoses

Another concern is the potential for inaccurate diagnoses. While AI has the potential to be highly accurate according to some studies, there needs to be a replacement for human expertise. 

Misleading information from inaccurate apps could lead to delayed treatment or unnecessary anxiety. For example, if an AI app misclassified your melanoma as a benign mole, you might delay seeking professional medical attention. This could have serious consequences, as early detection is crucial for successful melanoma treatment.

Need for Contextual Information

AI models often lack the ability to consider a patient’s complete medical history unless integrated with electronic health records (EHRs). This limitation can hinder accurate diagnosis.

Skin conditions can sometimes be symptoms of underlying systemic diseases, and a comprehensive diagnosis requires a holistic view of the patient’s health.

There is no substitution for seeing a specialist 

AI is undoubtedly a promising tool in dermatology. But remember, they shouldn’t replace the expertise of a qualified dermatologist. Dermatologists undergo rigorous and continuing education and training, so you can rest assured that they provide top-tier service.

An app, for instance, might provide some information about a suspicious mole, but it can’t replicate the thorough examination and years of training a dermatologist brings to the table. 

When it comes to your skin health, there’s no substitute for professional care. Your skin deserves the best care possible, and that often involves a human touch.