Value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in deep angiomyxoma using a biplane transrectal probe: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Deep angiomyxoma (DAM) is a very rare tumor type. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the best imaging modality for diagnosing DAM. Computed tomography (CT) is used mainly to assess the invasion range of DAM. The value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of DAM is still controversial. Through a literature review, we summarized the current state of ultrasonic examination for DAM and reported for the first time the contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features of DAM seen using a biplane transrectal probe.

CASE SUMMARY

A 37-year-old woman presented with a sacrococcygeal mass that had gradually increased in size over the previous 6 mo. MRI and CT examinations failed to allow a definite diagnosis to be made. Transperineal core needle biopsy (CNB) guided by transrectal ultrasound and CEUS was suggested after a multidisciplinary discussion. Grayscale ultrasound of the lesion showed a layered appearance with alternating hyperechoic and hypoechoic patterns. Transrectal CEUS showed a laminated distribution of the contrast agent that was consistent with the layered appearance of the tumor on grayscale ultrasound. We performed transperineal CNB of the enhanced area inside the tumor under transrectal CEUS guidance and finally made a definitive diagnosis of DAM through histopathology. The patient underwent laparoscopic-assisted transabdominal surgery combined with transperineal surgery for large pelvic tumor resection and pelvic floor peritoneal reconstruction. No recurrence or metastasis was found at the nine-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Transrectal CEUS can show the layered perfusion characteristics of the contrast agent, guiding subsequent transperineal CNB of the enhanced area within the DAM.

Keywords: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound; Transrectal ultrasound; Transperineal core needle biopsy; Deep angiomyxoma; Pelvic tumor; Case report

Core Tip: Deep angiomyxoma (DAM) is a very rare tumor. Imaging examinations play an important role in the diagnosis of DAM. Magnetic resonance imaging is considered the best imaging modality for diagnosing DAM. Computed tomography is used mainly to assess the invasion range of DAM. The value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of DAM is still controversial. We reported for the first time the contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features of DAM seen using a biplane transrectal probe. Transrectal CEUS can provide more abundant diagnostic information in terms of the blood perfusion characteristics of DAM, guiding subsequent transperineal puncture of the enhanced area within the tumor.