The British journal of dermatology
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Diagnostic errors are the most common, costly and dangerous of medical mistakes. In part 1 of this series, we described how general and dermatology-specific cognitive and perceptual biases underlie most of our correct diagnoses, as well as being a source of diagnostic medical errors. ⋯ Current individual and medical cultural attitudes need to be modified in order to incorporate improvements in diagnosis. Algorithms, artificial intelligence and system changes are being developed to address error and improve diagnostic accuracy.
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Meta Analysis Comparative Study
Conventional and combination topical photodynamic therapy for basal cell carcinoma: systematic review and meta-analysis.
Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an established treatment option for low-risk basal cell carcinoma (BCC). ⋯ PDT is an effective treatment for low-risk BCC, with excellent cosmesis and safety. Imiquimod has higher efficacy than single-cycle PDT but more adverse effects. Highest efficacy is with excisional surgery. Fractionated and combination PDT options warrant further study.
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Sir William Osler famously, and ironically, stated that 'Medicine is a science of uncertainty and an art of probability'. The processes by which each physician metes out diagnostic uncertainty and navigates probabilities in dermatology is far from uniform. ⋯ Discussed in this part of a two-part article are various cognitive and visual heuristics as they pertain to skin disease, with an introduction and special attention paid to the heuristic methods classically applied by dermatologists. How to best address error and improve our thought processes will be addressed in part 2.
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Editorial Case Reports
Let's acknowledge our mistakes and learn from them!