Creating a brand-new scoring system, the 6 key steps every scientist should follow
Introduction
Scoring systems are the unsung heroes of day-to-day dermatological practice. Disliked by many for the additional work they can bring to the table, they help train the clinical eye, bring a more evidence-based approach to the clinical practice and provide valuable endpoints in research.
There's no denying the crucial role scoring systems play in the development of the clinical field, as they are essential tools that bring precision, objectivity and reliability to clinical trials.
To better use and understand the tools at our disposal, we have to start at the beginning:
What is a Dermatological scoring system?
In Dermatology, a scoring system is a methodology that allows the doctor to assess the severity of a condition by observing and quantifying objective parameters such as redness, the affected area, the quantity and density of lesions, and so on.
The main goal of a scoring system is to provide a tool that documents data precisely and consistently for routine evaluations and clinical studies.