CEUS: Where are we in 2015?

Abstract

Contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), performed with the intravenous injection of microbubble contrast agents, has expanded the horizon for ultrasound imaging by providing a technique with superb sensitivity to arterial phase enhancement in dynamic realtime. For the first time, demonstration of blood flow at the microcirculatory or perfusion level is possible on ultrasound. Further, the purely intravascular microbubbles allow ultrasound to be used to monitor changes in the blood flow to tumors and in inflammatory sites. Its safe performance without any requirement for ionizing radiation and with no nephrotoxicity makes it a compelling choice in many clinical arenas and certainly for children. Here, we describe the wide and growing uses of CEUS in abdominal imaging.

Keywords: CEUS; Liver; Neoagniogenesis; Quantification; Tumors.