Intradermal Indocyanine Green for In Vivo Fluorescence Laser Scanning Microscopy of Human Skin: A Pilot Study
2011

Using Indocyanine Green for Skin Imaging

Sample size: 12 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jonak Constanze, Skvara Hans, Kunstfeld Rainer, Trautinger Franz, Schmid Johannes A.

Primary Institution: Medical University of Vienna

Hypothesis

Can Indocyanine Green (ICG) improve in vivo fluorescence microscopy for skin imaging compared to fluorescein?

Conclusion

Indocyanine Green provides a more stable and clearer fluorescence signal for skin imaging than fluorescein.

Supporting Evidence

  • ICG fluorescence lasted longer than fluorescein, remaining visible for up to 48 hours.
  • ICG provided clearer images of skin structures compared to fluorescein.
  • Automated analysis of ICG images allowed for detailed cell measurements.

Takeaway

This study shows that a special dye called Indocyanine Green can help doctors see skin better without needing to take a piece of it out.

Methodology

The study involved injecting Indocyanine Green into the skin of healthy volunteers and patients, then using a special microscope to capture images over time.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the small number of participants and the specific conditions tested.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and was limited to specific skin conditions.

Participant Demographics

9 healthy volunteers (5 women, 4 men) aged 20-57, and 3 patients with skin conditions.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0023972

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