64584 Skin of Color Society (SOCS) Project to Develop Inclusive Skin Assessment Tools

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-1-2025

Publication Title

J Am Acad Dermatol

Abstract

Background: Despite the growing minority population in the United States, there is no standardized method for incorporating skin color and its characteristics into clinical practice or research1. Skin classification aids in risk stratification, disease severity assessments, and monitoring adverse events, but most existing systems are limited (1). This study aims to identify components for an inclusive tool to diagnose and assess the severity of inflammatory and infectious conditions, evaluate disease course and treatment response, and classify participant categories in clinical research. Methods: A Delphi technique was utilized to transform expert opinion into group consensus through three survey rounds, meetings, and individual voting. A 66-item questionnaire scored with a 5-point Likert scale and 3 open-ended questions was distributed to a panel of SOCS dermatologists to gather opinions on skin type/color classification and assessment tools. Consensus for tool inclusion was defined as ≥80% agreement. Results: Twenty-two SOCS experts were invited to participate. Of these, twenty-one completed all three rounds and reached consensus on 21 statements. Critical consensus (≥70-79% agreement) was achieved for 7 statements, while 17 statements were excluded due to <70% agreement. 7 statements were selected for review based on panel members selecting “I don’t know/needs to be reviewed.” 100% consensus was reached on the need to validate the scale. Conclusions: Reliable tools for assessing dermatologic conditions in all skin types are essential. This study confirms that current classification tools are inadequate, and experts strongly agree on the need for a validated, inclusive tool for both clinical practice and research.

Volume

93

First Page

AB82

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