UZ Gent published a study this week examining the performance and results of the SkinVision app. We appreciate that UZ Gent conducted a large, independent study. The fact that an academic center has evaluated our product at this scale underlines that digital skin assessment is a serious and relevant development within healthcare.
The results show that AI technology can play a meaningful role in the early detection of skin cancer and in improving the quality of referrals. A sensitivity of 83% in this study is a solid result and aligns with earlier independent research, including studies conducted by Erasmus MC.
It is important to note that the study is based on data from the period 2021 to 2023. Since then, several model updates have been implemented within the applicable regulatory framework. Recent validations demonstrate improved performance, with sensitivity levels around 90%. The algorithm behind the app is continuously retrained and tested using millions of images and input from dermatologists.
Context
The context of the study is important. “The research was conducted in a high-risk population within an academic dermatology clinic. In such settings, more complex and challenging cases are typically seen than in a regular dermatology practice,” says Wim Laloo, Head of Regulatory and Clinical Affairs at SkinVision.
In these settings, atypical presentations occur more frequently, which can impact parameters such as specificity. In addition, images were taken of areas that, according to our instructions for use, are not suitable for AI analysis. “For example, heavily hair-covered skin. We also inform our users that the app is not suitable in those cases,” says Wim Laloo.
Furthermore, primarily one type of smartphone was used, while real-world performance may vary depending on the device and image quality.
Nevertheless, under these challenging circumstances, the app still performed reasonably well, with a sensitivity of 83%. This indicates robust detection capability, even within a complex clinical setting. The study by UZ Gent was conducted within a specific research population. The results should be interpreted within that context and cannot be directly extrapolated to the broader population.
“We invest internationally in scientific research and remain open to further collaboration with academic centers, including UZ Gent,” says Wim Laloo.
No diagnosis
It is important to emphasize that SkinVision is a screening tool and does not provide a diagnosis. “First and foremost, we emphasize that SkinVision is a screening tool and certainly does not provide diagnoses,” states Wim Laloo.
SkinVision provides a risk indication: low risk, continue monitoring, or high risk, recommendation to visit a doctor in person. “We aim to support the current healthcare system by directing the right people to the doctor at the right time. In doing so, we prevent unnecessary doctor visits while also improving the quality of referrals,” says Wim Laloo.
Our goal is to guide people to a physician in a timely manner when needed and thereby support the quality of triage. As a company, and in close collaboration with our partners, we take our role in raising awareness about skin cancer very seriously. We are committed to reaching at-risk populations appropriately through information and educational campaigns.
Use in Belgium and the Netherlands
In 2025 alone, more than 100,000 skin checks have been carried out in Belgium using SkinVision. Within this population, hundreds of skin cancers have been detected and confirmed. In the Netherlands, these numbers exceed 600,000 skin checks in 2025.
In addition, we have obtained MDR Class IIa certification. This confirms that SkinVision is a regulated medical device under European legislation. An important signal is that an increasing number of physicians recognize the role of digital triage as support in both primary and secondary care. Our focus is on improving referral quality and preventing unnecessary consultations.
We stand for transparency, scientific rigor, and patient safety. We will continue engaging with medical experts and partners to ensure accurate and complete information is shared.
