Abstract: A diagnostic method and apparatus for ultrasound imaging utilizes Rayleigh backscatter of ultrasound waves directed to an object for creating an image of the object. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic generator for generating a pair of waves of slightly different frequencies which are directed through the object and, after their individual detection upon return from the interior of the object, the two signals representing the two frequencies are differentially amplified in order to emphasize the scattered waves returned from various regions of the object and minimize specular reflections, thereby characterizing the acoustical scattering properties of the interior of the object based upon regional scattering properties.