Computer applications in dermatology.

Advances in computer technology both in hardwares and softwares has stimulated the proliferation of the use of computers in dermatology. The computers enable the voluminous medical literature and records to be compiled and accessed readily. Information technology enables dermatologists to conduct literature searches efficiently and helps in the management of patients. The information compiled in the computers as databases together with its capability to handle complex statistical analysis also enables dermatologists and computer scientists to develop expert systems to assist the dermatologist in the diagnosis and prognostication of diseases and to predict disease trends. Computers have also allowed dermatologists to assess visual images objectively, making it possible to study treatment response more accurately.