Provided herein are systems and methods for dynamic optoacoustic imaging of the peripheral vasculature. The system generally comprises a short pulse laser, a fiberoptic laser light delivery system, and imaging module, a scanning system, and electronics/computer system for system control and three-dimensional and two-dimensional optoacoustic image visualization. A method is provided for optoacoustic imaging of an appendage using the dynamic optoacoustic imaging system where an appendage of a subject is imaged under conditions of normal, maximum and minimum tolerable temperatures and displaying differential anatomical images of peripheral vasculature in the appendage and functional diagnostic parameters as a function of time and temperature. From this data medical conditions of the appendage may be diagnosed.
