Ultra high frequency breast ultrasound: Preliminary results

Purpose: Ultra high-frequency ultrasound (up to 70 MHz) allows an extremely accurate assessment of the breast skin layers as well as hair follicles in axilla, areola and nipple. The aim of the study was to evaluate the normal anatomy of the breast within the first 1 cm of the skin surface using ultra high the world’s first ultra ultra high-frequency US system for routine clinical use available today and its utility as a diagnostic tool. Methods: In this study were involved 7 patients (6 females and 1 male) with a mean age of 40.3 yo (range 31-53 yo). Images were acquired on the breast skin on upper outer quadrant, on axilla and in nipple-areolar region. Results: Periareolar and subcutaneous regions are often difficult to examinate with conventional ultrasound; this method allows to ultra highlight anatomical details such as skin layers, nipple, areolar and ducts structure. Conclusion: Ultra high frequency breast ultrasound provides important information on the anatomy expecially in nipple-areolar region and in the evaluation of skin thickness and could improve the clinical diagnosis and the preoperative planning.