Ultrasonic histogram assessment of early response to concurrent chemo-radiotherapy in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer: a feasibility study

Abstract

PurposeTo monitor early response for locally advanced cervical cancers undergoing concurrent chemo-radiotherapy (CCRT) by ultrasonic histogram. MethodsB-mode ultrasound examinations were performed at 4 time points in thirty-four patients during CCRT. Six ultrasonic histogram parameters were used to assess the echogenicity, homogeneity and heterogeneity of tumors. ResultsIpeak increased rapidly since the first week after therapy initiation, whereas Wlow, Whigh and Ahigh changed significantly at the second week. The average ultrasonic histogram progressively moved toward the right and converted into more symmetrical shape. ConclusionUltrasonic histogram could be served as a potential marker to monitor early response during CCRT.