Non-invasive methods of quantifying the composition of the plantar epidermis: The interpretation of data in health, ageing and disease.

Andrews, Jennifer

Abstract

Background
Epidermal composition influences the physical behaviour of the skin and its ability to withstand trauma. This is important on the plantar foot due to the high compression, shear, and torsion forces it is exposed to during weightbearing. Plantar skin pathology is common and can lead to pain and disability, particularly in people of advanced age, or those with diabetes. Despite this, little information is available on plantar epidermis composition.

Method
Within this PhD, two studies are undertaken: Study 1: ‘An investigation into the hydration of the foot skin and associated skin characteristics’ in which three commercially available devices (Corneometer® CM825, MoistureMeter D® and MoistureMeter SC™) are used to quantify plantar epidermal hydration alongside measures of skin hardness, elasticity, surface texture, and perceived skin health. Study 2: ‘An evaluation of the biochemical composition of the foot skin using CRS’ in which in-vivo Confocal Raman Spectroscopy and four commercially available hydration measurement devices (Corneometer® CM825, MoistureMeter SC™, MoistureMeter D® and DermaStat®) are used to measure the composition of the plantar epidermis with age, diabetes, and following emollient application.

Results
Study 1 provides insight into the relationship between plantar epidermis hydration and physical behaviour, surface features, and perceived health of the skin, when quantified using a variety of commercially available device.
Study 2 generates a novel data set detailing the plantar epidermis composition, and uses these data to demonstrate how age, diabetes, and emollient application impact plantar epidermis composition, and how this is represented by commercially available hydration measurement devices.

Conclusion
The first data set examining the plantar epidermis composition using in-vivo Confocal Raman Spectroscopy is presented. These investigations culminate in a set of recommendations for the use of commercially available hydration measurement devices on the plantar epidermis and the formulation of emollients for plantar skin of people of advanced age and with diabetes.

Citation

Andrews, J. (2024). Non-invasive methods of quantifying the composition of the plantar epidermis: The interpretation of data in health, ageing and disease. (Thesis). The University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: May 3, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: May 3, 2024
• Award Date: Apr 25, 2024