Skin cancer: findings and role of high-resolution ultrasound

Currently available high-resolution transducers allow a detailed ultrasound (US) assessment of skin tumors. US complements clinical examination, dermoscopy, and biopsy in the initial differential diagnosis, surgical planning, locoregional staging, and follow-up of patients with skin malignancies. It is important for dermatologists, skin surgeons, and US operators to be aware of the US imaging findings and to recognize the clinical scenarios where imaging is indicated in the management of skin cancer. The purpose of this review article is to address the most common indications for US in skin oncology and to provide a comprehensive guide to the gray-scale and color-Doppler findings in cutaneous malignant tumors.