Researchers overseas: ‘Radiology has become indispensable to dermatology’

Dermatologists increasingly rely on medical imaging modalities—especially but not solely ultrasound—to help diagnose complex and diverse skin disorders. 

If the trend continues and expands globally, radiologists should expect calls for greater collaboration with their dermatological peers. 

These are among the conclusions of two researchers at Bilecik Training and Research Hospital in Turkey. Radiologist Betül Tiryaki Baştuğ, MD, and dermatologist Hatice Gencer Başol, MD, had their paper published Feb. 27 in the European Research Journal.

For the study, the investigators analyzed 451 uses of radiology services by the dermatology clinic at their institution over the two-year period ending in December 2024. 

They found the top indication was general medical exams (29.93%). This was distantly followed by pruritus (aka “itching,” 9.31%) and psoriasis (7.76%).

Most referrals involved middle-aged adults (41 to 60 years old) and older adults (61+ years). 

Ultrasound was ordered at a 65.2% clip. X-ray had smaller but still-significant demand, at 18.6%, while MRI and CT trailed at 5.1% and 4.4%, respectively.

Technologies transcend turf interests 

Drilling down into utilization by modality, Baştuğ and Başol found: 

• Ultrasonography maintained consistently high referral rates, with a gradual increase peaking in mid-2024, “reflecting its expanding role in dermatological assessments,” the authors write. 
• X-ray showed a steady upward trend, “indicating its continued relevance for systemic evaluations.”
• MRI displayed a slight increase toward late 2024, “highlighting its growing role in complex cases.”
• CT was the least utilized, but its steady usage “underscores its necessity for specialized diagnoses.”
• Other modalities showed sporadic yet increasing utilization, “reflecting their value in unique clinical scenarios.”

“These trends emphasize dermatology’s increasing reliance on radiology, underscoring the need for strategic resource planning,” the authors comment. 

Generalizable on a global scale? 

Further, comparing their observations of radiology referrals from dermatology in their country with international trends, Baştuğ and Başol report: 

• Reliance on standard ultrasound: “While consistent with global trends, the heavy reliance on standard ultrasonography emphasizes its practicality and availability in Turkey.”
• X-rays as a staple: “Despite global shifts toward non-ionizing methods, X-rays remain vital in resource-limited settings.”
• Limited MRI and CT use: “These modalities are reserved for complex cases, likely influenced by economic constraints and demographic factors.”

“These comparisons highlight areas where targeted investments, such as advanced ultrasonographic tools and interdisciplinary training, further optimize radiology’s role in dermatology,” the authors remark. 

‘Setting new standards for healthcare delivery’

Baştuğ and Başol conclude that radiology has become “indispensable” to dermatology, as the former provides critical support for diagnosing and managing increasingly complex conditions. 

“Looking ahead, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and integrating emerging technologies like AI into radiology can further enhance dermatological care,” they write. “These efforts promise to align clinical practices with technological advancements, transforming patient outcomes and setting new standards for healthcare delivery.”

The study is available in full for free.