Mapping of the human body skin with the transcutaneous oxygen pressure method.

Transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) measurements are studied to determine whether location, side of body, sex, and age affect the values at 23 different sites. Measurements were taken on 19 healthy volunteers on one side or the other of the body. Values were similar at all sites with the exception of the forehead, cheek, medial aspect of the leg, and the scapular region. There was no difference between sides of the body or between younger and older subjects. Women had significantly higher values. The results are discussed, and it is concluded that most skin regions can serve as controls for areas under investigation.