The use of virtual reality in non-burn dermatological care – a review of the literature

Abstract

Aim

Virtual Reality (VR) is the artificial depiction of a three-dimensional (3D) environment using computer-generated technology which allows users to interact with a simulated setting. VR has been used in a variety of clinical scenarios due to its efficacy as a distraction intervention, reducing anxiety and pain associated with medical procedures. The aim of this review is to provide clinicians with an overview of VR use in clinical dermatology.

Methods

A search on VR use in clinical dermatology was conducted using PubMed Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.Gov in July 2019. Results related to burn care were excluded.

Results

This review identifies studies that utilized VR in the management of skin diseases and discusses considerations for its future use.

Conclusion

The findings of these studies indicate that VR has beneficial effects as a complementary tool in the treatment of dermatological conditions.

Keywords:

• Virtual reality
• dermatology
• pain
• stress
• distraction
• technology

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).