Abstract
In dermatological research, in vitro studies such as histopathology, biochemistry, and cell biology are popular. In vivo studies have been far smaller in number probably because physiological tests are not of great importance in making a diagnosis of skin disorders and measures for such studies have been limited. In recent years, thanks to rapid progress in electronic and computer technology, various fine instruments have been developed and have become commercially available for physiological evaluation of the skin. These instruments enable us to evaluate and/or monitor various characteristics or conditions of the skin quantitatively and non-invasively. This new field of studies for measuring the skin in vivo by technological methods is called bioengineering of the skin.” In this article, application of bioengineering methods to clinical and experimental dermatology is reviewed.
