High frequency, high resolution B-scan ultrasound in the assessment of skin tumours

Abstract

Sixteen skin tumours and one BCG vaccination granuloma were examined by 20‐MHz B‐scan ultrasound. Images were compared with closely matched histological sections of excised lesions. The correlation between histology and ultrasound was excellent for maximum tumour depth measurements (r=0.96, PPPPPPP<0.003). Results for dermatofibroma were atypical, due to paradoxical low internal echogenicity and increased echo absorption. B‐scanning is a reliable non‐invasive method for assessing tumour dimensions, and has potential for the study of tumour characteristics for diagnostic purposes.