Ultrasonic characterization of human colon carcinoma cells in the 5-25 MHz frequency range

Abstract

Early recognition of cancerous tissue is crucial in receiving a favorable prognosis. Diagnostic tools that allow for an understanding of differences in the ultrasonic characteristics (such as speed of sound (SOS), attenuation, and backscatter coefficients (BSC)) in malignant and benign cells can aid in early diagnostics. Although statistically significant distinctions between benign and cancerous tumor scatterer properties have been demonstrated, there is little knowledge about which cell characteristics create differences in scattering. This study centers on techniques using quantitative ultrasound to quantify the microstructure of HTC (colon cancer) cells in an attempt to establish a greater understanding of scattering mechanisms. To analyze these characteristics HTC cells were cultured, suspended in agar and prepared into samples. Broadband BSC measurements were conducted using focused transducers and narrowband attenuation and SOS measurements were performed using receiving and transmitting transducers. All experiments were made in the 5-25 MHz range at 21°C. A comparison of the obtained results was made with a similar study using a higher concentration of HTC cells to test the ability to accurately estimate the ultrasonic properties. The results introduce relevant data useful for comparative studies and further analysis.