Background

A Dermatologist depends heavily on their own visual literacy of hundreds of pathogenic skin lesions, which can have thousands of variants each. This literacy is built by years of experience in examination, testing, lab analysis and diagnosis. In some cases, a proper early diagnosis can save a life. In other cases, unnecessary biopsies of benign lesions can bog down laboratories and jeopardize the patient queue.

But what if we could shorten the time it takes a dermatologist to become visually literate? What if we could train the next generation of dermatologists before clinical practice and residency begins? We could better prepare MDs to diagnose and treat their patients.

Description

On Closer Look is an ongoing project that seeks to develop scalable methodology for creating, hosting, cataloguing and sharing 3D models of skin lesions. To date, we have focused most of our efforts on creating accurate, high resolution, 3D images in a method that minimizes patient discomfort and time. Photogrammetry (3D modelling using camera rather than 3D scanner) was the chosen technique and honed over a six-month period.

Capture devices and methods were evaluated on the basis of accuracy, resolution, speed and comfort, while a standardized system of capture was documented. Postproduction software was similarly evaluated with cost, time and accuracy in mind. Further postproduction added information and labels to the captured samples. Hosting solutions were evaluated as well, with patient privacy top of mind.

We compared our findings with those of a separate team using a different photogrammetry methodology, as well as to 3D scanners. Benefits and deficits have been noted, resulting in varying methodologies under variable conditions.

Faculty/Staff

Zachary Rothman
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Project Partners

UBC Educational Technology
Department of Dermatology

Student Team

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