Applications of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the pediatric abdomen

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pediatric Imaging
• Ultrasound Technology

Background:

• Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a safe, radiation-free imaging modality with growing evidence in pediatric applications.
• Pediatric CEUS utilizes techniques translated from adults and unique pediatric-specific methods.
• Extensive safety and efficacy data support various pediatric CEUS applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review established and emerging pediatric applications of contrast-enhanced ultrasound.
• To highlight the significance of FDA approval for key pediatric CEUS contrast agents.
• To discuss the current status and future potential of CEUS in pediatric imaging.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature on pediatric CEUS applications.
• Focus on intravenous abdominal applications: liver lesions, tumor monitoring, trauma.
• Emphasis on intravesical CEUS (ceVUS) for vesicoureteral reflux detection.

Main Results:

• CEUS is effective for characterizing pediatric focal liver lesions and monitoring abdominal tumors.
• Intra-abdominal parenchymal injuries in trauma can be evaluated with CEUS.
• Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) is a validated technique for pediatric vesicoureteral reflux.
• FDA approval of SonoVue®/Lumason® in 2016 has spurred global pediatric CEUS adoption.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric CEUS is a valuable, radiation-free imaging tool for diverse abdominal conditions.
• Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography is a key pediatric-specific CEUS application.
• The FDA approval has significantly advanced the use and acceptance of pediatric CEUS globally.