Contact Dermatitis follow-up care in a comorbid, elderly woman using patient-assisted teledermatology consultation in Covid-19 era

Abstract

Teledermatology is a boon in the current situation considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The use of teledermatology with the available technology for follow-up care in a comorbid, geriatric and COVID-19 situation is reported. An elderly female with comorbidities presented to us with acute history of itchy red lesions over the face and scalp after application of hair dye. She was diagnosed with a case of contact dermatitis and was treated with topical corticosteroids and antihistamines after routine investigations. Considering her status of being elderly, comorbidities and no caretakers, we offered patient-assisted teledermatology consultation (PATC) through mobile messenger app for her follow-up. We were able to assess the serial images sent by the patient on days 3, 5, and 7 and observed improvement. Mobile messenger apps are convenient for the patients and reduce 75% of follow-up visits. It achieves both patient and physician satisfaction. We suggest PATC for follow-up, especially in the elderly with comorbidities. It minimizes multiple follow-up visits, save time, and cost.

Keywords

• consultation
• follow-up
• teledermatology