Role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in diagnosis of pancreatic solid pseudopapillary tumor

Abstract

Objective To summarize the manifestation of solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas (SPTP) on ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and to investigate the diagnostic value of CEUS. Methods The ultrasound and CEUS images of six patients with SPTP confirmed by pathology were reviewed. According to CEUS record,the enhanced and wash-out time,enhanced speed and degree of tumor were analyzed. Results On ultrasound, SPTP presented as solid, well-circumscribed masses, usually heterogeneous in echo texture, and some of them contained macro-calcification. On CEUS, the tumor enhanced simultaneously or slightly late compared with normal pancreatic tissues. The contrast agent washed out quickly in all tumors than in normal pancreatic tissues. The enhanced degrees were equal to or less than that of the normal pancreatic tissues. Some tumors showed capsule and septum enhancement. Conclusions The manifestation of SPTP on CEUS had some features and may be helpful for differentiation diagnosis combine with ultrasound. Key words: Ultrasonography; Microbubbles; Pancreatic neoplasms