- Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh has developed a "groundbreaking" vibroacoustic sensor poised to revolutionise the diagnosis and treatment of eczema.
- The innovative device operates by emitting small vibrations onto the skin's surface to measure changes in tissue stiffness and fluid content, addressing the limitations and biases of traditional visual assessments.
- Over £475,000 in funding, including contributions from Scottish Enterprise and the Medical Research Council, has been secured to advance clinical trials and establish a spin-out company.
- Experts believe the technology could alleviate "years of suffering for millions of patients across the UK" by enabling earlier, data-driven treatment decisions and working effectively on all skin tones.
- The research team will now commence testing the sensor on patients with moderate eczema and gather feedback, with the aim of enabling treatment tracking and diagnoses in local pharmacies and community healthcare facilities.
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