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Contrast enhancing agents in ultrasonography: clinical applications
R Campani1, F Calliada, O Bottinelli
1Institute of Radiology, University Hospital, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
European Journal of Radiology
|July 4, 1998
Summary
Echocontrast agents significantly improve ultrasound sensitivity for both extravascular and vascular applications. Clinical trials show agents like Levovist enhance diagnostic confidence in various medical imaging scenarios.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ultrasound's diagnostic sensitivity is limited.
- Echocontrast agents offer significant improvements.
- Numerous agents are under development worldwide with diverse applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of echocontrast agents.
- To discuss established, near-future, and hypothetical applications.
- To highlight their role in both extravascular and vascular imaging.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and clinical trials on echocontrast agents.
- Categorization of applications into extravascular (gastrointestinal, body cavities) and vascular domains.
- Analysis of specific agent examples and their validated uses.
Main Results:
- Echocontrast agents enhance acoustic windows, organ distension, and visualization of cavities and fluid.
- Vascular applications include imaging of neck, limb, and renal vessels, as well as tumor vascularity.
- Validated uses extend to post-ablation therapy follow-up and echocardiography.
Conclusions:
- Echocontrast agents like Levovist substantially increase diagnostic confidence.
- Further trials are encouraged to validate preliminary findings and expand clinical utility.