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Dynamic optical coherence tomography of skin blood vessels - proposed terminology and practical guidelines
M Ulrich1, L Themstrup2, N de Carvalho3
1CMB Collegium Medicum Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
Background:
Dynamic optical coherence tomography (D-OCT) has recently been introduced in dermatology. In contrast to 'Standard' OCT imaging, which exclusively relies on the morphological analysis of the tissue, D-OCT allows the in vivo visualization of blood flow. Preliminary D-OCT data showed differences in the vascularization of nevus to melanoma transition, suggesting that this technology may help to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions.
Objective:
Several factors may influence the quality of D-OCT imaging. Therefore, standard operating procedures as well as a common terminology are required for better validation and comparison of the images.
Methods:
Here, we present practical guidelines for optimal image acquisition and a proposed terminology on vascular patterns observed by D-OCT.
Results:
Dynamic OCT allows the morphologic distinction of different vascular shapes (e.g. dots, blobs, curves, lines), their distribution and organization within skin lesions.
Conclusion:
D-OCT adds functional information on skin microvasculature and the vascular networks within lesions.
