Role of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in the diagnosis of liver metastases

Objective:To explore contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) features of liver metastases and the role of CEUS in diagnosing liver metastases.Methods:Forty-nine patients with established primary malignancy were enrolled in the study.All the patients were examined by CEUS with low mechanical index.Results:Different contrast enhancement patterns were observed according to lesion characteristics: A (45.8%):diffuse enhancement during the arterial phase,and hypoechoic appearance during the portal venous phase and the late phase. B (38.9%):peripheral rim-like enhancement during the arterial phase,and hypoechoic appearance during the portal venous phase and the late phase. C (9.2%):isoechoic appearance during the arterial phase, and hypoechoic appearance during the late phase. D (6.1%):hypoechoic appearance during all phases. Occult metastases were detected by CEUS,and the diameter of them usually less than 1.0 cm (55.3%).Conclusion:Real-time contrast-enhanced ultrasonography can improve the diagnostic rate of liver metastases.