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Initial experience with contrast-enhanced sonography of the prostate
E J Halpern1, L Verkh, F Forsberg
1Department of Radiology, Jefferson Prostate Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107-5244, USA.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|June 14, 2000
Summary
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) shows promise for detecting prostate cancer. This technique visualizes tumor vascularity, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy for malignant prostatic tissue.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Prostate cancer diagnosis relies on various methods, but detecting small or isoechoic tumors can be challenging.
- Visualizing prostate vascularity is crucial for accurate cancer detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of contrast-enhanced sonography in visualizing prostate vascularity.
- To determine if contrast-enhanced ultrasound improves the detection of prostate cancer.
Main Methods:
- A phase II study involving 26 patients with elevated PSA or abnormal DRE.
- Utilized intravenous sonographic contrast agent with continuous, intermittent, and phase inversion gray-scale, and power Doppler sonography.
- Correlated sonographic findings with sextant biopsy results.
Main Results:
- Contrast material administration led to visible enhancement on gray-scale and Doppler images (p < 0.05).
- Intermittent imaging identified two isoechoic tumors not visible on baseline scans.
- No enhancement was observed in patients without cancer; transient hemorrhage noted in biopsy tracts.
Conclusions:
- Intravenous contrast agents enable visualization of prostate enhancement on sonographic images.
- Contrast-enhanced intermittent sonography may aid in selectively enhancing malignant prostate tissue for improved detection.