Published in:
01-11-2019 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging | New Imaging Techniques (S Rais-Bahrami and K Porter, Section Editors)
Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Renal Imaging and Intervention
Authors:
Michael C. Olson, E. Jason Abel, Lori Mankowski Gettle
Published in:
Current Urology Reports
|
Issue 11/2019
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Abstract
Purpose of Review
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in abdominal imaging and intervention. The goal of this article is to review the practical applications of CEUS in the kidney, including renal mass characterization, treatment monitoring during and after percutaneous ablation, and biopsy guidance.
Recent Findings
Current evidence suggests that CEUS allows accurate differentiation of solid and cystic renal masses and is an acceptable alternative to either computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for characterization of indeterminate renal masses. CEUS is sensitive and specific for diagnosing residual or recurrent renal cell carcinoma (RCC) following percutaneous ablation. Furthermore, given its excellent spatial and temporal resolution, CEUS is well suited to demonstrate tumoral microvascularity associated with malignant renal masses and is an effective complement to conventional grayscale ultrasound (US) for percutaneous biopsy guidance.
Summary
Currently underutilized, CEUS is an important problem-solving tool in renal imaging and intervention whose role will continue to expand in coming years.