Check Your Skin... With an App?

Would you trust an app on your smartphone to check your skin and diagnosis melanoma? New smartphone applications aimed at non-clinical users claim they can determine if a skin lesion, or mole, is cancerous when the user takes a photo of the lesion with their phone and uploads it to the app.

Dermatologists say "don't."

Applications do note a disclaimer, saying the app is for educational purposes only, but as Assistant Professor of Dermatology Chris Miller, MD, says, apps that claim to diagnose can lead patients down a dangerous path.

"There is a difference between surveillance and self-diagnosis," says Dr. Miller. "If a smartphone application incorrectly determines a mole or lesion is benign [or unconcerning], that patient may not follow up with the proper specialist."

Dr. Miller says that's dangerous because if it really is a lesion that's cause for concern, this may prevent or delay the patient from receiving proper care. Also, the app will not take into account a person's medical history, which may be very pertinent.

In fact, a recent study found 3 out of 4 applications tested in the study misclassified at least 30% of melanomas as "unconcerning."

Just 1 application, which sent user images to an actual doctor for review, was highly accurate, correctly diagnosing 98% of melanomas.

"The best thing to do is make an appointment with a dermatologist to determine if the lesion needs a biopsy or treatment," says Dr. Miller. "Apps like this might be good educational tools, but an in-office visit is always preferred."

Apps available as tools for health screenings are good reminders about the things we should be monitoring, but they do not take the place of regular visits with your health care provider.

How to Check Your Skin for Skin Cancer

It is never too early to check your skin for skin cancer.

Take a few minutes to look at yourself in a full-length mirror and use a handheld to visualize areas hard to see. You should be familiar with the moles and freckles on your body.

Take note of anything that is changing in size, shape, or color. Also watch for pink shiny or scaly lesions that may bleed easily and don't heal.

Save the Date: Skin Cancer Screening at Penn Medicine

Save the date Saturday, May 18 for a free skin cancer screening at Penn Medicine. 

Date: Saturday, May 18

Location: Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, 1st Floor-Suite 330S, Philadelphia, PA 19104