High-Frequency Ultrasound Examination in the Diagnosis of Skin Cancer

Ultrasound above 14 MHz images epidermis, dermis , and subcutaneous tissues in real time. Tumor depth is ascertained with B-mode. Three-dimensional imaging depicts nonpalpable, in-transit, and satellite lesions. Doppler blood flow technologies measure tumor neovascularity and map vascular structures. Three-dimensional Doppler histogram reconstruction measures tumor aggression and metastatic potential proportional to the percentage of malignant vessels. Subcutaneous investigation reveals nonpalpable metastatic disease and nodal basin lymphadenopathy . Adjacent nerves may be studied. Preservation of the fat–fascia border refines surgical staging of deeper malignancies. Image-guided biopsy is facilitated. Treatment under image guidance is optimized with radiation and various photo and thermal technologies.