Clinical usefulness of variable-frequency ultrasound in localized lesions of the skin

Background

High variable-frequency ultrasound is a recently available technique capable of clearly defining skin layers and deeper structures that also provides local perfusion patterns obtained in real time.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the performance of variable-frequency ultrasound in the evaluation of skin lesions.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of 4338 skin ultrasound examinations in predominantly localized skin lesions, and in a group of 130 healthy controls. We determined ultrasound sensitivity, specificity, and statistical level of certainty, and compared ultrasound diagnoses with clinical diagnoses.

Results

Referring diagnosis was correct in 73% of the lesions, and addition of ultrasound increased correctness to 97% (P < .001 for the difference). Ultrasound overall sensitivity was 99%, specificity was 100%, and statistical diagnostic certainty was 99%

Limitations

Ultrasound in its current version cannot detect lesions that are epidermal only or that measure less than 0.1 mm in depth.

Conclusions

Ultrasound is a reliable adjuvant for the accurate and precise diagnosis of skin lesions.

Key words: dermatology, imaging, skin, sonography, tumors, ultrasound