High-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM): a tool for visualizing skin biopsies

Microsc Microanal. 2014 Oct;20(5):1356-64. doi: 10.1017/S1431927614013063. Epub 2014 Sep 8.

Abstract

We evaluate the usefulness of digital volume data produced with the high-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) method for visualizing the three-dimensional (3D) arrangement of components of human skin, and present protocols designed for processing skin biopsies for HREM data generation. A total of 328 biopsies collected from normally appearing skin and from a melanocytic nevus were processed. Cuboidal data volumes with side lengths of ~2×3×6 mm3 and voxel sizes of 1.07×1.07×1.5 µm3 were produced. HREM data fit ideally for visualizing the epidermis at large, and for producing highly detailed volume and surface-rendered 3D representations of the dermal and hypodermal components at a structural level. The architecture of the collagen fiber bundles and the spatial distribution of nevus cells can be easily visualized with volume-rendering algorithms. We conclude that HREM has great potential to serve as a routine tool for researching and diagnosing skin pathologies.

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy*
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods
  • Microscopy / methods*
  • Skin / pathology*
  • Skin / ultrastructure*
  • Skin Diseases / diagnosis*