Skin Cancer Diagnostics through a Mobile Applications Use

Czech version

Authors: M. Arenbergerová ¹; L. Drlík ²; O. Volný ³; M. Pásek ¹
Authors‘ workplace: Dermatovenerologická klinika 3. LF UK a FNKV Praha ¹; Dermatologická ordinace Mohelnice ²; Neurologická klinika LF OU a FN Ostrava ³
Published in: Čes-slov Derm, 100, 2025, No. 6, p. 223-229
Category: New drugs, cosmetics, devices

Overview

Mobile applications for skin cancer diagnostics are available in an increasing frequency targeting either healthcare professionals or the general public. Among apps for general population, only SkinVision (and skinScan, not clinically validated) hold European certification. The first prospective study showed sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 83% compared to dermatologists (88% and 97%). Another study confirmed similar results with 80% sensitivity and 78% specificity. A retrospective study demonstrated very high sensitivity (95.1%) but lower specificity (78.3%). Next study reported a wide range: sensitivity 41–83% and specificity 60–83%, with a tendency toward overdiagnosis. The multicenter study found sensitivity of 86.9% and specificity of 70.4%. Overall, SkinVision shows sensitivity between 41–95% and specificity between 60–83%, depending on study design. Compared to dermatologists, the app remains less accurate –⁠ dermatologists with dermoscopy achieve up to 92% sensitivity and 95% specificity. The main advantage is the ability for patients to perform self-examinations, especially those unlikely to see a dermatologist. Without technology, self-exams detect only 21–57% of melanomas; with the app, detection rates improve significantly. However, the app tends to classify benign lesions as suspicious, leading to false positives. Greatest benefits may occur in at-risk groups who usually skip preventive check-ups. SkinVision is classified as a class IIa medical device since June 2025 (class I before this date) and can complement preventive strategies. Further clinical studies, especially in a general population, are needed to validate its real-world evidence.

Keywords:

Skin tumors – dermoscopy – Mobile apps – SkinVision

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Do redakce došlo dne 11. 11. 2025.

Adresa pro korespondenci:
prof. MUDr. Monika Arenbergerová, Ph.D. D
ermatovenerologická klinika 3. LF UK a FNKV
Šrobárova 50
100 34 Praha 10
e-mail: arenbergerova@email.cz

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Article was published in

Czech-Slovak Dermatology

2025 Issue 6