An Imaging DEvice for Acne Spots - the IDEAS study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An Imaging DEvice for Acne Spots - the IDEAS study
IRAS ID
217061
Contact name
Alison Layton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
2017-003087-12, EudraCT; 733543, Horizon 2020 - SME Instrument (PH2)
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 31 days
Research summary
ScanZ is an imaging device and software interface that offers patients and professionals opportunities for the improved diagnosis and management (including self-management) of acne vulgaris via an end-to-end digital pathway. The primary objective of this study is to employ an iterative development process to demonstrate and consolidate the utility of the ScanZ system for pharmacist and dermatologist-led care delivery. People aged 11 years and older with acne vulgaris recruited from the community or first referrals to secondary care will be offered a ScanZ-based consultation instead of a traditional appointment. This briefly comprises of a series of photographs and scans which generate information on skin characteristics important for accurate diagnosis, prognosis and treatment selection. Each participant will be asked to enter demographic and clinical details such as age of onset, family history of acne and scarring, previous and current treatments, directly into the software via a series of questions displayed on an ipad. The data will be stored electronically in a NIHR approved cloud-based platform which will automatically generate an on-screen report for the healthcare professional and an email report for the participant. The report will summarise the data collected, suggest the most appropriate treatment and, in the case of the patient report, offer skin care advice. Treatment selection will be underpinned by algorithms derived from recent evidence-based acne clinical practice guidelines. The ultimate goal is to expedite progress along an optimised care pathway from community to secondary care by focusing on patient education using a process which (a) minimises the use of antibiotics, (b) reduces emotional and physical scarring from acne and (c) facilitates safe prescribing of oral isotretinoin. The main ScanZ system will be complemented by a patient app and dedicated isotretinoin apps for both patient and professional which allow regular recording of side effects.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/YH/0330
Date of REC Opinion
20 Nov 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion