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[On the seasonality of dermatoses: a retrospective analysis of search engine query data depending on the season].

[On the seasonality of dermatoses: a retrospective analysis of search engine query data depending on the season].

Authors :
Köhler MJ
Springer S
Kaatz M
Source :
Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete [Hautarzt] 2014 Sep; Vol. 65 (9), pp. 814-22.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Background: The volume of search engine queries about disease-relevant items reflects public interest and correlates with disease prevalence as proven by the example of flu (influenza). Other influences include media attention or holidays.<br />Study Goal: The present work investigates if the seasonality of prevalence or symptom severity of dermatoses correlates with search engine query data.<br />Methods: The relative weekly volume of dermatological relevant search terms was assessed by the online tool Google Trends for the years 2009-2013. For each item, the degree of seasonality was calculated via frequency analysis and a geometric approach.<br />Results: Many dermatoses show a marked seasonality, reflected by search engine query volumes. Unexpected seasonal variations of these queries suggest a previously unknown variability of the respective disease prevalence. Furthermore, using the example of allergic rhinitis, a close correlation of search engine query data with actual pollen count can be demonstrated.<br />Discussion: In many cases, search engine query data are appropriate to estimate seasonal variability in prevalence of common dermatoses. This finding may be useful for real-time analysis and formation of hypotheses concerning pathogenetic or symptom aggravating mechanisms and may thus contribute to improvement of diagnostics and prevention of skin diseases.

Details

Language :
German
ISSN :
1432-1173
Volume :
65
Issue :
9
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
25234631
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00105-014-2848-6