Technological aids

The quality of life impact of skin conditions can be considerable. This factor needs to be taken into account when assessing patient’s need and their response to treatment. The psychological and social impact of chronic skin conditions has been found to be of significance (Rapp et al., 1999), especially when compared to other medical diseases. Irrespective of disease severity, the quality of life impact of many chronic skin diseases can be major. As such, it is necessary to assess disease-related quality of life effectively using valid tools (Chen, 2007). Due to the significance of this area, it is addressed in detail in Psychological and social aspects of skin care, in an examination of the psychological and social impact of skin disease and treatment.

Technological aids
A range of technological and other diagnostic aids are available. Those listed below are typically used in clinical practice.