Intraductally applied contrast-enhanced ultrasound (IA-CEUS) for evaluating obstructive disease and secretory dysfunction of the salivary glands

Eur Radiol. 2011 Jun;21(6):1339-48. doi: 10.1007/s00330-010-2038-6. Epub 2010 Dec 31.

Abstract

Obstructive diseases of the salivary glands are a common problem, usually based on sialolithiasis, duct stenosis, foreign bodies or other more rare causes. Secretory dysfunction, often associated with Sjögren syndrome or post radiation treatment, is also a frequent problem. Several diagnostic tools exist to classify the disease; however conventional radiological imaging or ultrasound does not provide a diagnosis in 5-10% of all cases. Intraductally applied contrast-enhanced ultrasound (IA-CEUS) improves the visualization of obstructive diseases of the salivary glands. IA-CEUS is a promising tool for assessing the ductal system and to diagnose and characterize abnormalities. This study describes the assessment of IA-CEUS in diagnosing different obstructive and chronic inflammatory conditions of the salivary glands.

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Phospholipids / administration & dosage*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Salivary Gland Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Sulfur Hexafluoride / administration & dosage*
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Phospholipids
  • contrast agent BR1
  • Sulfur Hexafluoride