Ultrasound
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a gentle imaging technique utilizing sound waves to distinguish between different types of tissues. The sound waves are reflected uniquely based on the properties of each tissue type. These properties help physicians distinguish between normal and abnormal and benign and malignant structures.
Ultrasound is helpful in the diagnosis of structures in the skin and subcutaneous tissues, image-guided procedures, and staging of skin diseases. Doppler ultrasound is useful for identifying blood flow to and from structures.
How is ultrasound used in Dermatology?
Dermatologists may utilize ultrasound to assess lymph nodes, foreign bodies, abscesses, hidradenitis suppurativa, and deep skin structures such as cysts, vascular structures, and lipomas. Ultrasound imaging can help dermatologists diagnose and develop effective treatment plans including surgical planning or referral to another medical specialty (2).
At Goodman Dermatology, ultrasound is available at the Roswell office.
Ultrasound in dermatology: principles and applications.
Kleinerman R, Whang TB, Bard RL, Marmur ES. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2012 Sep;67(3):478-87. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2011.12.016. Epub 2012 Jan 30. PMID: 22285673.
Wortsman X. Ultrasound in dermatology: why, how, and when?
Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 2013 Jun;34(3):177-95. doi: 10.1053/j.sult.2012.10.001. PMID: 23768885.