Related Experiment Videos
The histological interpretation of high frequency cutaneous ultrasound imaging
S M Milner1, O M Memar, G Gherardini
1Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555, USA.
Background:
High frequency, high resolution B-scan ultrasound imaging (US) has been used to assess skin. The use of US is limited because of difficulty interpreting the various echoes.
Objectives:
To correlate the appearance of constant US echoes with histology in normal human skin.
Methods:
Normal skin from eight volunteers was scanned with US at a frequency of 20-25 MHz, prior to excision for clinical reasons. The echogenic bands of the skin and histological measurements of various layers were related statistically.
Results:
Three constant echogenic bands were identified, which correlated with skin surface, dermis, and subcutaneous fascia.
Conclusion:
The correct interpretation of echogenic bands in normal skin allows for the US to be more reliably used for assessment of skin disorders.