Informatics-Based Psychotherapeutic and Psychiatric Interventions in Dermatology: A Scoping Review of Impacts on Skin Disease Severity and Mental Health Outcomes (Preprint)

Abstract Background Chronic dermatologic conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa are associated with a high burden of psychiatric comorbidities, including depression, anxiety, and suicidality. Despite growing awareness of the psychosocial impact of skin diseases, mental health needs remain underaddressed in dermatologic care. Digital technologies (including teledermatology, mobile health apps, and internet-delivered psychotherapies) offer promising avenues for integrating psychotherapeutic and psychiatric interventions into dermatology. However, the scope, effectiveness, and implementation of such informatics-based approaches remain poorly mapped in the literature. Objective This scoping review aimed to systematically identify, categorize, and synthesize studies on digital psychotherapeutic and psychiatric interventions targeting patients with dermatological conditions, with a focus on clinical, mental health, and implementation outcomes. Methods Following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search across 5 databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar) for articles published up to March 2025. Studies were included if they involved patients with dermatologic conditions and assessed interventions that combined a digital informatics component (eg, telehealth, apps, artificial intelligence, virtual platforms) with a psychotherapeutic or psychiatric element (eg, cognitive behavioral therapy [CBT], mindfulness, consult-liaison psychiatry). Eligible study designs included clinical trials, observational studies, and mixed methods research. Data were extracted systematically, and methodological quality was assessed using JBI tools. Results Out of 15,176 records identified, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most interventions targeted psoriasis (9/11) and used asynchronous digital platforms such as internet-based CBT and mobile apps. Across studies, dropout rates ranged from 10% to 76%. Improvements in dermatologic quality of life were reported in 6 of 11 studies, with statistically significant reductions in depression and anxiety observed in multiple trials (eg, internet-based CBT and mindfulness-based interventions), alongside reductions in psoriasis severity (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) and itch intensity in randomized controlled trials. Intervention duration ranged from single-session virtual reality exposure to 8‐ to 12-week structured programs. However, long-term outcomes beyond 3 to 12 months were rarely assessed, and reporting of sociodemographic variables and equity-related factors was limited. Conclusions Informatics-based psychotherapeutic and psychiatric interventions represent a promising frontier in psychodermatology, with early evidence suggesting feasibility and potential clinical benefit. Digital platforms may expand access to mental health support and improve holistic care for patients with dermatologic conditions. However, significant gaps remain in terms of equity, long-term effectiveness, integration into clinical workflows, and adaptation for diverse populations. Future research should focus on rigorous, inclusive trials and the development of hybrid models that blend digital and face-to-face care to ensure sustainable and equitable impact.

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