Novel computer-based processing techniques for quantitative measurement of skin structures

摘要

Measuring skin structures quantitatively has many applications in dermatology and cosmetology. The purpose of this research was to extend from previous image processing and counting techniques to overcome challenges in time efficiency, customization for each image, and staining differences between images. Performances of the new techniques are then compared with traditional methods. The application of interest is the analysis of structural changes in skin responding to repetitive mechanical stress. The image processing and analysis methods for quantitative measurement of skin structures described in this paper represent an advancement over previous computer processing methods in terms of data management and automation. Results showed significant differences in cellular density in the papillary dermis and collagen density in the reticular dermis for skin subjected to combined shear/compression or tension compared with an unstressed control. The computer method took longer to conduct than the traditional method, though with recent advances in computer hardware this time difference would be eliminated.