DIAG: a computer-assisted dermatologic diagnostic system--clinical experience and insight.

Over the past few decades, the computer has been utilized in various ways to assist physicians in formulating their differential diagnoses, usually on an experimental basis. Following a review of the three major technics employed in computer-assisted diagnosis, statistical pattern classification, production rules, and cognitive models, a new system (DIAG) is described. The sole function of DIAG is to assist in the formulation of the differential diagnosis of skin diseases. At the beginning of the fourth year of development, the accuracy of the program in reaching diagnoses has been shown, on many occasions, to be comparable to its expert counterparts. However, it has been demonstrated that the system is not utilized within the dermatology clinic routinely. In response to this, aspects of DIAG have been modified in order to improve its clinical acceptability. Until this acceptance is achieved, these tools will not fulfill their potential to affect patient care.