159 Ultrasound to examine subcutaneous nodules in dermatology

Although histological assessment can assist in many dermatological diagnoses, there has been a recent trend to add imaging modalities improve diagnostic accuracy. Ultrasound uses large array of frequencies that correspond various depths the skin: subcutaneous layer be viewed with high resolution. Subcutaneous nodules, deep-seated lesions deep dermis and layers, are attractive targets for ultrasound because they often show minimal visual changes on skin surface. The aim this work is review expanding body literature regarding use visualization nodules. A was conducted Covidence managing using electronic databases PubMed, Medline (ovid), Web Science, Google Scholar search terms ‘ultrasound,’ ‘dermatology,’ ‘subcutaneous nodule’, ‘panniculitis,’ ‘sarcoidosis,’ ‘granuloma annular’ ‘polyarteritis nodosa.’ yielded 474 results were screened. total 57 articles included written English involved nodules human patients. These case reports series characterized sonographic features sarcoidosis (irregular hypoechoic nodule perilesional hyperechoic portion), granuloma annulare ill-defined halo) or panniculitis (septal: thickening septa between fatty lobules; lobular: diffuse increase echogenicity lobules). Sonography shown non-invasive cost-effective technique capture images real-time without ionizing radiation. It help direct biopsies, facilitate appropriate treatment, monitor disease progression. More research required understand full potential larger variety dermatologic concerns.