Multiparametric ultrasound and micro-ultrasound in prostate cancer: a comprehensive review

Br J Radiol. 2022 Mar 1;95(1131):20210633. doi: 10.1259/bjr.20210633. Epub 2021 Nov 9.

Abstract

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common non-cutaneous cancer diagnosed in males. Traditional tools for screening and diagnosis, such as prostate-specific antigen, digital rectal examination and conventional transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), present low accuracy for PCa detection. Multiparametric MRI has become a game changer in the PCa diagnosis pathway and MRI-targeted biopsies are currently recommended for males at risk of clinically significant PCa, even in biopsy-naïve patients. Recent advances in ultrasound have also emerged with the goal to provide a readily accessible and cost-effective tool for detection of PCa. These newer techniques include elastography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, as well as improved B-mode and Doppler techniques. These modalities can be combined to define a novel ultrasound approach, multiparametric ultrasound. High frequency Micro-ultrasound has emerged as a promising imaging technology for PCa diagnosis. Initial results have shown high sensitivity of Micro-ultrasound in detecting PCa in addition to its potential in improving the accuracy of targeted biopsies, based on targeting under real-time visualization, rather than relying on cognitive/fusion software MRI-transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Humans
  • Image-Guided Biopsy
  • Male
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Ultrasonography / methods*
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional

Substances

  • Contrast Media