Colour Doppler sonography of breast masses: a multiparameter analysis

To evaluate signals from breast lesions on both colour and spectral Doppler US, and to correlate findings with angiographic and histopathological features including microvessel density.

One hundred and sixteen breast lesions in 113 patients were evaluated with colour Doppler ultrasonography. Subjective and semi-quantitative assessment of colour signals as well as spectral Doppler analysis were performed and compared. Comparison of colour Doppler features with angiographic and histopathological findings were also carried out.

Subjective evaluation revealed that colour signals were more commonly found in malignant (89%) than benign (56%) lesions. Malignant lesions demonstrated a more elaborate vascular network (51%) compared to 12.5% in benign lesions. Spectral Doppler analysis revealed slightly higher specificity values for the pulsatility and resistivity indices, respectively, but lower sensitivity and accuracy values compared to qualitative assessment. Colour Doppler patterns corresponded well with angiograhic images, however, the correlation between colour Doppler parameters and microvessel density was not significant.

Despite the increased examination time required, spectral analysis does not appear to contribute significantly to the differentiation between malignant and benign breast tumours. Features such as the density, pattern and predominant site of colour signals may be more useful for the evaluation of breast lesions on colour Doppler imaging.