In vivo study of skin mechanical properties in scleredema of Buschke

A non-invasive, in vivo suction device was used to investigate the mechanical properties of the skin in a patient with scleredema of Buschke. Clinical scoring of skin induration and measurements of skin elasticity were performed over 9 anatomic regions on admission and after 3 (on discharge), 17 and 28 months. Immediate distension, final distension and immediate retraction were significantly decreased, while the viscoelastic to elastic ratio was significantly increased in the patient as compared to the healthy controls. Delayed distension and biological elasticity were preserved. Low values of skin distensibility correlated with a severe skin induration (p < 0.001). The changes were more expressive with the 8 mm-diameter measuring probe than the 2 mm-diameter probe. The method applied can be used for objective and quantitative assessment of skin involvement in scleredema of Buschke.