With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers have made increasing use of inpatient teledermatology; however, few studies have analysed the impact of teledermatology on patient outcomes. In this study, we investigated the diagnostic concordance between the primary team and teledermatologist, and we analysed the impact of this technology on the diagnosis and management of erythroderma, a condition with high morbidity and mortality. Overall, out of 2987 inpatient teledermatology encounters reviewed, we found 33 cases of erythroderma, and, of these, 78.8% had a change in diagnosis after teledermatology consult, 81.8% were recommended biopsy and all patients had a change in topical/systemic therapy. We hope to promote further study of the efficacy of teledermatology as it may begin to address large gaps in dermatological access to care particularly in regional and community hospitals.
© 2021 British Association of Dermatologists.