Functionality of novel handheld 3D imaging system for the measurement of pigmented lesions

Summary: Diagnosing melanoma requires accurate evaluation and monitoring of pigmented lesions. Digital imaging has become increasingly important, including 3D imaging. However, most 3D imaging requires whole-body instruments, which oftentimes requires large funds, specialists and cannot be used in rural settings. Here we examine the use of a novel handheld 3D imaging system to evaluate pigmented lesions. This clinical trial evaluated 161 pigmented lesions using the 3D Derma Monitor and iPad, then compared to dermatoscope, the gold standard. Variables investigated included primary diameter (mm), secondary diameter ( mm), area (mm²), shape border irregularity (%), and primary and secondary shape asymmetry (%). Absolute differences in measurements from the Derma Monitor and iPad compared to the dermatoscope were calculated. A Wilcoxon’s signed-rank test found statistically significant differences between the Derma Monitor and the iPad, with consistently more accurate measurements for the Derma Monitor (p-value <0.05 for all variables, including primary and secondary diameter, area, primary and secondary asymmetry, and border irregularity). The Derma Monitor demonstrated significantly improved measurement accuracy compared to iPad imaging. The handheld device also allowed for image capturing of larger surfaces, such as entire backs with up to 0.1mm resolution. This presents a unique opportunity for improved monitoring of lesions, while also being used for a diverse set of conditions, including rashes, wounds and pre-/post-operative follow up. Reliable and reproducible imaging is crucial for telemedicine and computer-aided follow-up of skin lesions to increase high quality coverage of underserved areas Elena Bigliardi², Jeremy Massey³, Mei Bigliardi-Qi^{1, 2}, Brian Zelickson⁴, Mona Selim⁴, Paul Bigliardi¹ 1. Dermatology, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, United States. 2. McGuire Translational Research Facility, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, United States. 3. IKO PTE LTD, Singapore, Singapore. 4. ZelSkin & Laser Specialists, Edina, MN, United States. Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, and Imaging