Biopsies
Micro biopsies of the target area are done to check the prognosis of ongoing treatment. A biopsy is an invasive method that allows an extensive histological study of individual cases. This makes it a valuable tool in measuring the effectiveness of new research treatment designs and customizing treatment plans per patient.
The evaluation of the progression of the condition can be done under the following scales designed to grade cellulite. Nurnberger-Muller scale is the earliest and simplest method based on findings of pinch test.
- Grade 0: There’s no dimpling in rest or contracted state but pinching reveals an “orange peel” appearance
- Grade 1: Visible “orange peel” appearance while standing but not when lying down.
- Grade 2: Visible “orange peel” appearance both while standing and lying down.
More extensive and elaborate grading scales are devised for better evaluation. This includes the Rosi and Vergnanini scale which takes into account the critical histology and the CSS developed by Hexsel et al which also considers skin elasticity, number, and depth of depressions, along with the Nurnberger-Muller scale.