Dermasensor – Will this technology replace dermatologists?
When I was a dermatology resident in 2002 we worked on a study in the Melanoma Center where I worked. The study was called Melafind. With it, we used a special camera to take pictures of moles that we suspected might be Melanoma. Then the images were compared in a data center with the biopsy results. The goal was to be able to use the images to predict in the future which spots would be a melanoma.
Fast forward 20 years and this type of technology has taken on new life.
Powered by Artificial intelligence (AI) and lots of years of experimentation, Dermasensor recently received FDA approval to analyze skin lesions. Using an image taken with the special Dermasensor device, allows the device to predict ( on a scale of 1 to 10) how likely the growth is to be cancerous.
In the study that allowed them to receive FDA approval, the device was 96% sensitive. Meaning it didn’t miss many skin cancers. However, when the device indicated a biopsy was needed, a cancer was confirmed 58% of the time.
When these results were compared against a group of dermatologists, the device performed very well.
How will this device be used? This device is primarily designed for use of non-dermatologists to determine the likelihood that a biopsy is needed. This would help in determining which patients most need a referral in areas where there is a shortage of dermatologists.
How does this compare to the device Dr Rosenberger uses all the time? The handheld device Dr Rosenberger uses is called a dermatoscope. It provides polarized light and magnification to help Dr Rosenberger see better. No AI in a dermatoscope. In essence, the dermatologist brain is the AI.
Is this a device we will use in the office? Probably not. Based on these statistics, we would biopsy more “normal” spots causing the patient unnecessary scarring and worry. After over 20 years, Dr Rosenberger should out perform the device. But never say never. There may be a day where this is required before insurance approves a biopsy. Things are ever changing. If you a curious, check out their website at www.dermasensor.com. It’s amazing what the advances being made in technology.
