Gamma-Calibrated 33 MHz Ultrasound Imaging Strategy Unlocks High-Resolution Identification of Dermatology-Invisible High-Risk Acne: From Inclusive Superficial Ultrasound Imaging to Graded Risk Assessment.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a risk stratification framework for various pseudopodia patterns in acne detected by Gamma-calibrated 33 MHz ultrasound and to investigate the predictive value of macro-pseudopodia for poor prognosis.

METHODS: In this prospective study, the pseudopodia of acne detected by Gamma-calibrated 33 MHz high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) were graded. Based on the pseudopodium morphology, 110 acne from 32 moderate-to-severe patients were stratified into two groups: a low-risk and a high-risk level group. Univariate analyses were employed to determine features associated with high-risk acne. A one-month clinical follow-up was conducted in a subgroup of 19 moderate patients (61 lesions) treated with topical therapy. A 70% reduction in acne area was defined as effective treatment response. Univariate analyses were employed to determine features associated with poor prognosis.

RESULTS: The Gamma-calibrated 33 MHz ultrasound provided remarkably high resolution and contrast, allowing for the visualization of various pseudopodia patterns in acne, including short strip, long strip, vase shape, nodular convex, and fistula. These types were further stratified into low- and high-risk levels based on HFUS and clinical characteristics. The maximum diameter, perimeter, area, and location of acne were closely related to the occurrence of high-risk type (p < 0.001). One-month clinical follow-up in moderate acne patients confirmed a significant association between high-risk pseudopodia and poor prognosis (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION: The Gamma-calibrated 33 MHz ultrasound imaging strategy was an accurate mode in risk stratification for various pseudopodia patterns. Macro-pseudopodia were associated with poor prognosis, underscoring their indispensable role in the strategic management of acne disease.