Dermoscopic Image Digital Post-Processing Perception and Use Among Members of the International Dermoscopy Society: Results of a Web-based Survey

Introduction: Speculatively, digital image post-processing (DIPP) enhances diagnostic accuracy in dermoscopy. Objective: We aimed to investigate the advantages and limitations of DIPP, as well as its perceived reliability and safety. Methods: In this study we investigated the perception and use of DIPP among members of the International Dermoscopy Society through a web-based survey with 17 questions focusing on: (i) demo-graphics (sex, age, nationality, specialty, professional experience in dermoscopy), (ii) application of digital dermoscopy, (iii) imaging devices, (iv) DIPP software usage, (v) area of DIPP application (e.g., neoplastic dermatoses or inflammoscopy), preference over manual or automatized DIPP, (vi) personally adjusted parameters, (vii) perceived reliability and safety of DIPP, and (viii) an open comment section. Results: A total of 360 respondents (64 countries) completed the survey. While 91.7% of respondents reported capturing dermoscopic images during examination, only 22.4% of them declared using DIPP. We have demonstrated that DIPP was used more commonly with smartphones rather than video dermatoscopes or digital cameras and for dermoscopy of neoplastic dermatoses rather than inflammoscopy. Respondents tended to adjust image parameters manually. The perceptions of its usefulness and safety were good, even though slight variability across geographic regions was observed. Conclusion: Given that no regulations for DIPP exist, healthcare professionals involved with dermoscopic image acquisition and archiving may require special training to responsibly implement DIPP in their practices.