The use of high-frequency diagnostic ultrasound to investigate the effect of hormone replacement therapy on skin thickness

Background/aims. Previous investigations have suggested that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could have a positive effect on the maintenance of skin thickness post-menopause. Previous skin measurement devices have proved variable in their accuracy and ease of use. This investigation assessed the effect of HRT on the skin in a noninvasive way, using high-frequency diagnostic ultrasound. Method: The study was a cross-sectional observational study, carried out at a menopause and gynaecology outpatient's clinic. A total of 84 women (comprising 34 HRT users, 25 post-menopausal controls, and 25 premenopausal controls) took part in the study. Each volunteer was scanned using diagnostic ultrasound on the arm. Skin thickness measurements were made from each scan using computerised image analysis. Results: Skin thickness was shown to be greater in the HRT group than in the post-menopausal controls (P<0.01). Conclusions: High-frequency diagnostic ultrasound proved to be a useful clinical tool and showed that HRT appears to help maintain skin thickness in menopause.