High Resolution Superficial Diagnostic Ultrasound System for Assessing Skin Thickness

Background: Compared to other superficial noninvasive skin imaging modalities, ultrasound is relatively deeply penetrating, and can be used to evaluate deep dermal and subcutaneous structures. Methods: Skin overlying 20 different pre-designated face and neck anatomic sites in 32 individuals was imaged using two commercially available high frequency diagnostic ultrasound devices, a dedicated imaging device and a diagnostic device bundled with a therapeutic device. At each of the various anatomic sites, dermal and subcutaneous layer thicknesses, respectively, were assessed with each device by blinded expert raters. Results: Similar skin thickness measurements were obtained. Notably, subcutaneous fat depth was measured to be 0.2 cm at the forehead; 0.5 cm at the mental eminence; and 0.6 cm at the submental, supraglenoid, and temporal regions. The combined epidermal and dermal thickness was approximately 0.1 cm at the zygomatic process, suborbital area, inferior malar region, gonion, supraglenoid area, and nasolabial-buccal and nasolabial fold regions. Conclusion: This is the first study using high resolution superficial diagnostic ultrasound devices to map the subcutaneous and combined epidermal and dermal thicknesses of the face and neck at standard anatomic locations. Ultrasound that visualizes skin with high resolution is an inexpensive, noninvasive, and convenient means to monitor dermatologic conditions and guide their treatment.