Parathyroid adenomas: study on multimode ultrasonograms and diagnostic thinking

Abstract

Objective To summarize the sonographic characteristics of parathyroid adenomas(PAs) and investigate the diagnostic values and best diagnostic thinking for an early detection. Methods Sixteen cases finally proved with PAs were retrospectively analyzed of their clinical complaints, the department for their initial consultation,indicative ultrasound findings for neck scanning, major manifestations of PAs on a series of three-mode ultrasound imagings,association of adenoma sizes to serum parathyroid hormone(PTH) levels. Results On multimode ultrasound images, the PAs were multidisciplinary morphologic, homogenously hypoeehoic,absent of calculus and necrosis,highly vascularized with color signals,and similar to thyroid in contrast agents perfusion. Serum PTH levels were elevated in accordance with increase of adenomas' size. Among the 16 cases 12 were defined as with parathyroid incidentalomas, to which liver or/ and kidney stones were contributed as indicatives. Conclusions High frequency ultrasound with multiple imaging modes are most suitable for scanning and detection of neck PAs. For those with stones in liver and urinary tracts, unknown bone fracture etc, ultrasound scanning of the neck parathyroids used to reveal latent PAs. Key words: Ultrasonography; Parathyroid neoplasms; Adenoma