Skin Hyperpigmentation Index is a Reliable Method for Measuring SH

The skin hyperpigmentation index (SHI) is a reliable method for all intra- and interrater assessments or skin hyperpigmentation.

Researchers aimed to gain evidence of the reliability and validity of the SHI compared to the physician global assessment score by dividing 15 raters into 3 groups of dermatologists, nondermatologist physicians, and nonphysician clinicians. Each rated 5 pigmented mole lesions with mild-to-severe hyperpigmentation using the Physician Global Assessment (PGA) score and photographed the lesions. The photos were also assessed with an automatic computer measurement software using the online SHI tool.

The SHI showed excellent reliability, while the PGA assessments showed good intra- and interrater agreement.

“There is evidence that the SHI is a reliable instrument for measuring skin hyperpigmentation, and can be used by nonexperienced clinicians,” concluded the study authors.

Reference
Bossart S, Cazzaniga S, Willenberg T, et al. Reliability assessment and validation of the Skin Hyperpigmentation Index compared to the Physician Global Assessment Score. Dermatology. Published online December 30, 2021. doi:10.1159/000520753