What is an ultrasound scan?

Ultrasound scans use sound waves to create images of structures in the body. During the exam, a handheld device called a probe is placed on the skin and emits high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves travel through the body and reflect off tissues, organs and tumors, producing echoes that are picked up by the probe. A computer processes these echoes to produce an instant image called a sonogram that can be viewed on a monitor.

Ultrasound is particularly effective at imaging soft tissue, such as organs, muscles, and blood vessels. It can provide valuable information about the size, shape and texture of these structures, making it a useful tool in cancer detection and diagnosis.

The use of ultrasound in cancer diagnosis

Ultrasound is often used as a cancer diagnostic tool in a variety of ways:

1. Detect tumors and masses

Ultrasound is often used to detect tumors or abnormal masses in organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, thyroid, ovaries, and breasts. It helps identify whether the lump is solid (possibly cancerous) or fluid-filled (usually a cyst), allowing for an initial assessment of its nature.

2. Guided biopsy

If the ultrasound detects a suspicious mass, the scan can lead to further diagnostic procedures, such as a biopsy. During a biopsy, a needle is inserted into the mass to extract a tissue sample for analysis. Ultrasound can pinpoint lumps, ensure accurate needle placement, and improve biopsy success rates.

3. Monitoring cancer treatment

Ultrasound can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatments. For example, in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, ultrasound scans can help determine whether tumors are shrinking as a result of treatment.

4. Detect lymph node involvement

Lymph nodes are a common site where cancer spreads. Ultrasound can help detect enlarged lymph nodes and assess whether they are affected by cancer, helping with staging and treatment planning.

Types of ultrasound scans used for cancer diagnosis

– Abdominal ultrasound: used to see organs in the abdomen, such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. It helps detect tumors, cysts, and other abnormalities in these organs.

– Breast ultrasound: Used to evaluate lumps and other abnormalities in the breast found during a mammogram or physical exam. It helps differentiate between a solid lump and a fluid-filled cyst.

– Pelvic ultrasound: Used to image organs in the pelvic area, such as the bladder, ovaries, uterus, and prostate. It is often used to detect gynecological cancers, such as ovarian and uterine cancer, and prostate cancer in men.

– Thyroid ultrasound: This scan evaluates nodules or abnormalities in the thyroid gland and can help diagnose thyroid cancer or benign thyroid disease.

– Doppler ultrasound: This is a special type of ultrasound used to assess blood flow in blood vessels. It can help assess the tumor’s blood supply, providing information about its nature and growth rate.

Advantages of ultrasound in cancer diagnosis

1. Non-invasive and painless: Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging method that does not involve needles or incisions. The test is usually painless and there is no discomfort during the procedure.

2. No radiation exposure: Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasound uses sound waves rather than ionizing radiation, making it a safer option, especially for pregnant women and child.

3. Real-time imaging: Ultrasound provides real-time imaging, allowing medical professionals to see motion, such as blood flow and organ function. This is particularly useful when guiding procedures such as biopsies.

4. Widely accessible and affordable: Ultrasound machines can be found in most hospitals and clinics, and the test is often more accurate than other imaging modalities, such as MRI or CT scans Affordable.

Limitations of Ultrasound Scanning in Cancer Diagnosis

1. Limited detail and resolution: Ultrasound has lower resolution than other imaging techniques, such as CT or MRI scans. In some structures, especially air-filled areas or areas of dense bone, it may not provide detailed images.

2. Operator dependent: The accuracy and quality of an ultrasound scan depends on the skill of the person performing the procedure. An experienced technician or radiologist is required to capture high-quality images and interpret them correctly.

3. Limited penetration depth: Ultrasound is less effective at imaging deep tissue or organs located behind bone or gas-filled structures because the sound waves cannot penetrate bone and are Gas scattering.

What to expect during an ultrasound scan

An ultrasound scan is usually a quick and simple test, taking anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. The following is the inspection process:

1. Preparation: You may need to wear hospital-provided clothing or remove clothing from the area being examined. Depending on the type of scan, you may need to keep your bladder full or fast for a few hours before the test.

2. Process: You will lie on the examination table, and a layer of water-based gel will be applied to the skin of the examination area to help the probe better contact the skin and improve image quality . A technician or radiologist moves the probe over your skin, capturing a live image on a monitor.

3. After the scan: There is no recovery time after an ultrasound scan and normal activities can usually be resumed immediately.

Conclusion

Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool in cancer detection and monitoring, providing a non-invasive, safe and widely accessible way to visualize internal structures. Despite its limitations in image resolution and detail, its advantages, such as real-time imaging and lack of radiation, make it a popular choice for assessing tumors and guiding biopsies. For patients undergoing ultrasound scans, understanding its role in the diagnostic process can help alleviate concerns and better understand its use in cancer diagnosis.

References

– National Cancer Institute. (2019). Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/ultrasound

– American Cancer Society. (2020). Imaging Tests for Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-basics/imaging-tests .html

– Mayo Clinic. (2021). Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ultrasound/about/pac-20395177

– Fischerova, D. (2015). Ultrasound scanning as the first-line method in diagnosing gynaecological tumors: A literature review. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology, 46( 2), 125-134.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for educational and reference purposes only and does not constitute medical advice , and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment or advice. Always consult your physician or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition or medical problems. The content of this article is not intended to recommend any specific test, treatment, or medication and should not be considered such advice. If you develop symptoms or need medical assistance, please contact a medical professional promptly.