How to perform high ultrasound examination of skin involvement among patients with systemic sclerosis-proposition of a unified protocol

Abstract

Introduction: A fast and cheap method of skin assessment in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an area of extensive research. Established in 1979, the Rodnan skin score is a palpation-based method used among clinicians. This method has some limitations, such as: Examiner's skills, subjective results, and no standardization. In the last few years researchers have been exploring ultrasound-based techniques as a possible tool for skin assessment among patients with SSc. The aim of the study is to develop a protocol of elastography-based skin imaging evaluation among patients with SSc. Material and methods: Review of the literature and own experience. Results: Proposition of elastography-based skin imaging protocol among patients with SSc. Conclusions: The authors present a potential protocol of ultrasound-based examination of skin involvement among patients with SSc.