Comment
Although our Google search results included a wide range of sources and information regarding diet and dermatologic conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema, most of the information we found was either unfounded or misleading. Study limitations in the current literature include small sample size, potential recall bias, lack of appropriate controls, incomplete reported results, and the failure to clearly define skin changes.
When considering the accuracy and type of information regarding skin conditions that is available on the Internet, it is important to note that most of the results we reviewed were webpages attributed to self-proclaimed experts. Although educational websites also were included in the search results, whether or not patients prefer or understand the content of such websites is still unknown; therefore, health organizations should consider revising online patient education materials to allow universal comprehension.27
Furthermore, it is important to consider the impact that widespread Internet access may have on the physician-patient relationship. Having access to health-related information online and being able to potentially self-diagnose could delay or deter patients from seeking professional advice or care.3 A study evaluating the impact of online searches on the physician-patient relationship among 175 patients determined that 36.5% of patients gathered information online prior to their consultation with a physician, while 67.3% chose to complement the information given to them by their physician with online resources.28 Based on these statistics, it is important that physicians be up-to-date with Internet discourse to discredit unfounded recommendations. Ultimately, when it comes to diet and dermatology, patients ought to be skeptical of the information currently available on the Internet, given that most of it is unsubstantiated by medical research.