Will AI Shape Dermatology for the Future?

AI (artificial intelligence) is the developing field of computer systems with the ability to perform tasks that usually require uniquely human skills. AI is rapidly advancing—indeed, it already plays an indispensable role in many daily functions. Every time you ask Siri to play your favorite track or unlock your phone with face recognition, this is AI in action.

But how will this impact the field of dermatology? In short, quite dramatically. From cancer care to aesthetic planning, the advantage of technology is set to play a large part in future dermatological care.

AI Dermatology: What it is, how it’s being used, and future developments

• What is AI dermatology?
• AI dermatology today
• The future of AI dermatology

What is AI dermatology?

AI is defined as the use of computer systems and machine learning to carry out tasks within this clinical field that require one or more of:

• Visual perception and recognition
• Speech recognition
• Language translation
• Modeling future potential scenarios

When this is applied to the field of dermatology, we can easily understand that both the first and last of these are most relevant. For example, identifying a potentially cancerous skin lesion or simulating the aging process in an individual.

In the former scenario, a diagnosis of skin cancer is usually made through a dual-stage process. A visual examination from a dermatologist flags the area as having the potential to be cancerous. This is enabled by looking at the lesion through a magnifying instrument, known as a dermatoscope. If appropriate, a biopsy is performed, and skin cancer is either confirmed or ruled out.

The first part of this process is highly dependent on the skill of the dermatologist. Most professionals have a very low capacity for error. This means that if there’s even the slightest chance of the lesion being cancerous, then further tests will be carried out. AI has shown itself to be at least as accurate as humans (if not better) at this first stage of the diagnosis.

AI dermatology today

Despite the promising scenario described above, there are still many hurdles to be overcome before AI dermatology is commonly used within the doctor’s office. However, because the field is mainly visually led, dermatology is one of the foremost areas in which AI and machine learning is being fast-tracked.

Over the past decades, considerable advancements have been made in the area of AI dermatology. While it’s true that there’s only FDA approval for AI-embedded algorithms in the area of radiology (another field that uses visual stimuli for most protocols), it’s only a matter of time before this also translates to the treatment of the skin.

The future of AI dermatology

With skin cancers in particular, the prognosis is excellent as long as there’s an early diagnosis. AI will play a key role here, and it will be in the near future, rather than distant. 

Digital twin technology may also be an area that scientists explore. This is the creation of a digital model of a system—such as the human body—where multiple simulations can be run to determine possible outcomes. Imagine, for example, a digital twin being made of your face, with various treatments being performed to see which works the best. 

The potential of this, while still many years in the future, is huge. Dermatologists would be able to show you with certainty how treatments would work and evolve over the years, leading to incredible advancements in helping their patients achieve the looks of their dreams.

Of course, much work is still to be carried out before AI dermatology becomes a reality. There are still many pitfalls, limitations, and challenges to be overcome. However, it’s only a matter of time before this futuristic technology enters the world of dermatological medicine.

So, watch this space…

Today, Tomorrow, & Beyond: Bayou City Dermatology Leads the Way in the Ultimate Treatment Options

The quality of care provided by the dermatological clinicians at Bayou City Dermatology has always been underpinned by the latest scientific developments, dermatology expertise, ongoing training, and unrivaled patient care.

As AI continues to advance within the field, you can be sure that our practitioners and treatments not only follow the most advanced practices and proven technology, but also that the human aspect that our clients love will never change.

Find out more about our services at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/services and get in contact today to book a consultation.