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English K. Echo contrast medium: How the use of contrast echocardiography (ultrasound contrast agents) can improve patient care. World J Methodol 2025; 15. [DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v15.i3.100490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2024] [Revised: 12/14/2024] [Accepted: 12/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2025] Open
Abstract
Conventional echocardiography can sometimes pose a challenge to diagnosis due to sub-optimal images. Ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) have been shown to drastically enhance imaging quality, particularly depicting the left ventricular endocardial borders. Their use during echocardiography has become a valuable tool in non-invasive diagnostics. UCAs provide higher-quality images that may ultimately reduce the length of hospital stays and improve patient care. The higher cost associated with UCAs in many situations has been an impediment to frequent use. However, when used as an initial diagnostic test, UCA during rest echocardiogram is more cost-effective than the traditional diagnostic approach, which frequently includes multiple tests and imaging studies to make an accurate diagnosis. They can be easily performed across multiple patient settings and provide optimal images that allow clinicians to make sound medical decisions. This consequently allows for better diagnostic accuracies and improvement in patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevan English
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
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Hu S, Tian Y, He M. Determining the optimal contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography technique for vesicoureteral reflux in children and adolescents: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Front Pediatr 2025; 13:1472382. [PMID: 40352609 PMCID: PMC12061863 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2025.1472382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2025] [Indexed: 05/14/2025] Open
Abstract
Aim To evaluate diagnostic combinations of imaging modalities and contrast agents for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children. Methods Studies were retrieved in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) until March 16, 2023. We used bivariate random-effects model and a frequentist model for meta-analysis. Surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used to rank ceVUS protocols. Results 19 studies identified 4 diagnostic combinations. Contrast-harmonic ultrasound with SonoVue® (CHSV) had significantly lower sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy than VCUG, although its negative predictive value was higher than VCUG. Contrast-harmonic ultrasound with Optison™ (CHOS) was comparable to VCUG across all diagnostic measures. SUCRA analysis favored CHOS, with probabilities of being the best for SEN, SPE, PPV, NPV, DOR, and DA at 50.9%, 16.6%, 42.6%, 57.4%, 36.2%, and 20.4%, respectively. Conclusion Harmonic VUS with Optison™ may be the optimal protocol for VUR detection in children. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42023424510, identifier (CRD42023424510).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Min He
- Department of Ultrasound, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University/Key Laboratory of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pediatric Diseases, and Birth Defects of the Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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Kalayeh K, Fowlkes JB, Yeras S, Chen A, Daignault-Newton S, Schultz WW, Sack BS. A Comparative Study of Commercially Available Ultrasound Contrast Agents for Sub-harmonic-Aided Pressure Estimation (SHAPE) in a Bladder Phantom. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2024; 50:1494-1505. [PMID: 39054243 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2024.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to evaluate the performance of different commercial ultrasound contrast microbubbles (MBs) when measuring bladder phantom pressure with sub-harmonic-aided pressure estimation (SHAPE) methodology. We hypothesized that SHAPE performance is dependent on MB formulation. This study aimed to advance the SHAPE application for bladder pressure measurements in humans. METHODS Using a previously designed and built bladder phantom, we tested four different commercial agents: Definity, Lumason, Sonazoid and Optison. A standard clinical cystometrogram (CMG) system was used to infuse a MB-saline mixture into the bladder phantom to measure pressure. Ultrasound imaging was performed using the GE Healthcare LOGIQ E10 scanner. RESULTS All agents showed a predicted inverse linear relationship between change in pressure and SHAPE signal. However, they differ from each other in terms of stability, linear correlation, sensitivity to pressure and error. Generally, Definity and Lumason showed the highest performance during the SHAPE-based bladder phantom pressure assessments. CONCLUSION Our results show that the SHAPE signal decreases as bladder phantom pressures increases, regardless of the agent or CMG phase, suggesting the possibility of using SHAPE for measuring bladder pressure without a catheter. However, the efficacy of SHAPE in measuring pressure varies by MB formulation. These observations support using Lumason and Definity in a human subject feasibility study as we advance toward a catheter-free solution for measuring voiding bladder pressure via SHAPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kourosh Kalayeh
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - J Brian Fowlkes
- Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sophia Yeras
- College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Amy Chen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - William W Schultz
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Bryan S Sack
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Conen P, Thiemann J, Stredele R, Clevert DA. Value of contrast-enhanced sonography in the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2024; 196:1022-1028. [PMID: 38408474 DOI: 10.1055/a-2254-5490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of the urinary tract and bladder (ceVUS) is an alternative examination method to micturition cysturethrography (MCU/VCUG) for suspected vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) that is increasing in practice. The purpose of this review is to present the current value of ceVUS in the diagnosis. METHOD A systematic literature search was performed using the keywords "vesicoureteral reflux", "ceVUS", "VCUG" of the databases MEDLINE and Cochrane Library as well as a review of current German, European, and American guidelines on this topic. In addition, recommendations for action in clinical practice were developed. CONCLUSION ceVUS is a quick-to-learn examination method that is equivalent to VCUG for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux and should be used as the diagnostic method of first choice when available given the absence of radiation exposure. KEY POINTS · Like VCUG, ceVUS is the diagnostic method of first choice in suspected vesicoureteral reflux and should be used preferentially given the absence of radiation exposure.. · Especially in comparison to the alternative VCUG, ceVUS is a quick-to-learn examination method.. · ceVUS can also be used to diagnose other pathologies of the lower urinary tract.. CITATION FORMAT · Conen P, Thiemann J, Stredele R et al. Value of contrast-enhanced sonography in the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; 196: 1022 - 1028.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Conen
- Department of Radiology, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, München, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Ultrasound-Center, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, München, Germany
| | - Janine Thiemann
- Department of Radiology, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, München, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Ultrasound-Center, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, München, Germany
| | - Regina Stredele
- Department of Urology, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, München, Germany
| | - Dirk Andre Clevert
- Department of Radiology, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, München, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Ultrasound-Center, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, München, Germany
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Cajigas-Loyola SC, Chow JS, Hayatghaibi S, Iyer RS, Kwon J, Rubesova E, Sánchez-Jacob R, Wyers M, Otero HJ. Imaging of Vesicoureteral Reflux: AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2024; 222:e2329741. [PMID: 37672329 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.23.29741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a common congenital anomaly of the urinary tract that can present with collecting system dilation or as a febrile infection. VUR can lead to permanent renal sequelae requiring surgery but can also spontaneously resolve without complication. Therefore, recognizing patient populations who warrant imaging for screening, confirmation, or ongoing surveillance for VUR is important, as is avoiding overdiagnosis. In the appropriate patient populations, an accurate diagnosis of VUR allows early treatment and prevention of pyelonephritis and scarring. Various imaging modalities are available to diagnose and grade VUR, including voiding cystourethrography, radionucleotide cystography, and contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS). The objective of this article is to summarize the current understanding of VUR diagnosis and management and to discuss these imaging modalities' strengths and pitfalls. Considerations include indications for VUR imaging, patient preparation, conduct of the examination, issues related to radiologic reporting, and cost-effectiveness. An emphasis is placed on ceVUS, which is the most recently introduced of the three imaging modalities and is receiving growing support among pediatric radiologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C Cajigas-Loyola
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Jeanne S Chow
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | - Ramesh S Iyer
- Department of Radiology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA
| | - Jeannie Kwon
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Erika Rubesova
- Department of Radiology, Stanford Medicine Children's Health, Palo Alto, CA
| | | | - Mary Wyers
- Department of Radiology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Hansel J Otero
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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Saraga M, Saraga-Babić M, Arapović A, Vukojević K, Pogorelić Z, Simičić Majce A. The Intrarenal Reflux Diagnosed by Contrast-Enhanced Voiding Urosonography (ceVUS): A Reason for the Reclassification of Vesicoureteral Reflux and New Therapeutic Approach? Biomedicines 2024; 12:1015. [PMID: 38790977 PMCID: PMC11117776 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is defined as the urine backflow from the urinary bladder to the pyelo-caliceal system. In contrast, intrarenal reflux (IRR) is the backflow of urine from the renal calyces into the tubulointerstitial space. VURs, particularly those associated with IRR can result in reflux nephropathy when accompanied by urinary tract infection (UTI). The prevalence of IRR in patients with diagnosed VUR is 1-11% when using voiding cystourethrography (VCUG), while 11.9-61% when applying the contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS). The presence of IRR diagnosed by VCUG often correlates with parenchymal scars, when diagnosed by a 99mTc dimercaptosuccinic acid scan (DMSA scan), mostly in kidneys with high-grade VURs, and when diagnosed by ceVUS, it correlates with the wide spectrum of parenchymal changes on DMSA scan. The study performed by both ceVUS and DMSA scans showed IRRs associated with non-dilated VURs in 21% of all detected VURs. A significant difference regarding the existence of parenchymal damage was disclosed between the IRR-associated and IRR-non-associated VURs. A higher portion of parenchymal changes existed in the IRR-associated VURs, regardless of the VUR grade. That means that kidneys with IRR-associated VURs represent the high-risk group of VURs, which must be considered in the future classification of VURs. When using ceVUS, 62% of places where IRR was found were still unaffected by parenchymal changes. That was the basis for our recommendation of preventive use of long-term antibiotic prophylaxis until the IRR disappearance, regardless of the VUR grade. We propose a new classification of VURs using the ceVUS method, in which each VUR grade is subdivided based on the presence of an IRR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijan Saraga
- School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (Z.P.)
| | - Mirna Saraga-Babić
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Adela Arapović
- Department of Pediatric, University Hospital of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (A.A.); (A.S.M.)
| | - Katarina Vukojević
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Zenon Pogorelić
- School of Medicine, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (Z.P.)
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Ana Simičić Majce
- Department of Pediatric, University Hospital of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (A.A.); (A.S.M.)
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Ren J, Ma T, Huang S, Chen G, Dietrich CF, Peng Y, Cui X. A narrative review on the applications of intracavitary contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in pediatric lower genitourinary anomalies. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:984643. [PMID: 37274817 PMCID: PMC10236366 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.984643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We mainly aimed to perform a narrative review of clinical applications of the three intracavitary contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) including contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS), contrast-enhanced retrograde urethrosonography (ceRUG), and contrast-enhanced genitosonography (ceGS) in pediatric lower genitourinary anomalies. METHOD A literature search in the PubMed and Web of Science databases was conducted up to 1 July 2022 on all studies published in English using the search terms "contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography", "contrast-enhanced retrograde urethrosonography", and "contrast-enhanced genitosonography". Trials were limited to pediatric subjects (ages ≤18 years) with no time restrictions. The inclusion criteria were studies on ceVUS, ceRUG, and ceGS to evaluate pediatric lower genitourinary anomalies. Two independent authors summarized the included articles. RESULTS Finally, a total of 48 original articles and 6 case reports or case series were included, of which 50 (93%) were only relevant to ceVUS, 3 (5%) articles involved ceGS, while only one (2%) article involved ceRUG, and 87% of the applications of ceVUS were focused on vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). We also searched 24 related reviews, of which 20 involved ceVUS in diagnosing VUR and 4 involved ceRUG and ceGS for other lower genitourinary anomalies. CONCLUSION Intracavitary CEUS including ceVUS, ceRUG, and ceGS in pediatrics has many advantages over other radiological examinations in diagnosing lower genitourinary anomalies. Although ceVUS is widely used in detecting VUR, ceRUG and ceGS have also become promising techniques for evaluating the urethral pathologies and urogenital sinus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Ren
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Ma
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuyan Huang
- Department of Ultrasound, The First People’s Hospital of Huaihua, Huaihua, China
| | - Gongquan Chen
- Department Allgemeine Innere Medizin, Kliniken Hirslanden Bern, Beau Site, Salem und Permanence, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christoph F. Dietrich
- Department Allgemeine Innere Medizin, Kliniken Hirslanden Bern, Beau Site, Salem und Permanence, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yuexiang Peng
- Department of Ultrasound, The Third Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinwu Cui
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Salib A, Halpern E, Eisenbrey J, Chandrasekar T, Chung PH, Forsberg F, Trabulsi EJ. The evolving role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in urology: a review. World J Urol 2022; 41:673-678. [PMID: 35969244 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-022-04088-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ultrasound's versatility and ease of use has expanded its application in many clinical settings. Technological advancements with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) have allowed high quality imaging similar to CT or MRI with lower risk of contrast toxicity and radiation exposure. In this review article we examine the development of CEUS and its vast applications in the field of urology. METHODS A PubMed literature search was performed using keywords: contrast enhanced ultrasound, prostate cancer, renal cancer, and multiparametric ultrasound. RESULTS The development of CEUS has improved transrectal ultrasound imaging with increased detection of prostate cancer (PCa). Further enhancements of CEUS such as subharmonic imaging (SHI), flash replenishment imaging (FRI) and contrast ultrasound dispersion imaging (CUDI) allow improved PCa diagnosis. CEUS has also emerged as an important tool in characterizing suspicious renal mass without compromising renal function with contrast imaging. CONCLUSION CEUS has modernized imaging and diagnosis of prostate and renal cancer. Future advancements and utilization of CEUS will allow its expansion into other urological subspecialties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Salib
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut St. Ste. 1100, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Ethan Halpern
- Department of Radiology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John Eisenbrey
- Department of Radiology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Thenappan Chandrasekar
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut St. Ste. 1100, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Paul H Chung
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut St. Ste. 1100, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Flemming Forsberg
- Department of Radiology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Edouard J Trabulsi
- Department of Urology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, 1025 Walnut St. Ste. 1100, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA.
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Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography, a possible candidate for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux in children and adolescents; a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pediatr Urol 2022; 18:61-74. [PMID: 34801413 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2021.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) in the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is still a subject of dispute. OBJECTIVE Assessing the diagnostic value of ceVUS in VUR, performing a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS An extensive search on Medline, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science databases was conducted by the end of 2020. The inclusion criteria were studies on the diagnostic value of ceVUS for VUR. Two independent researchers summarized the included articles and the findings were reported as area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI). RESULTS Finally, the data of 36 articles were included in the present meta-analysis (2768 children). The VUS assessment showed that 1297 of the cases were true positives, 3661 were true negatives, 398 were false positives and 169 were false negatives. The AUC, sensitivity and specificity of ceVUS with the first-generation contrast agent in the diagnosis of VUR in children and adolescents were obtained as 0.97 (95% CI: 0.95, 0.98), 0.92 (95% CI: 0.86, 0.96) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.95, 0.98), respectively. Moreover, AUC, sensitivity and specificity of ceVUS with the second-generation contrast agent were 0.97 (95% CI: 0.95, 0.98), 0.93 (95% CI: 0.86, 0.97) and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.86, 0.95). CONCLUSION The findings of the present study showed that diagnostic value of ceVUS with both first-generation and second-generation contrast agents for VUR, is in an excellent range. Although it seems that ceVUS may be applied as a radiation-free alternative to imaging techniques such as VCUG, the presence of 3% of false negatives in this test is a limitation. Since the lack of punctual management of VUR is associated with serious renal complications in children, future studies are recommended to be focused on the evaluation of the Benefit-risk evaluation of ceVUS.
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Ntoulia A, Aguirre Pascual E, Back SJ, Bellah RD, Beltrán Salazar VP, Chan PKJ, Chow JS, Coca Robinot D, Darge K, Duran C, Epelman M, Ključevšek D, Kwon JK, Sandhu PK, Woźniak MM, Papadopoulou F. Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography, part 1: vesicoureteral reflux evaluation. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:2351-2367. [PMID: 33787945 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04906-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) is a well-established, sensitive and safe ultrasound (US) modality for detecting and grading vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and urethral imaging in children. Nearly three decades of remarkable advances in US technology and US contrast agents have refined ceVUS's diagnostic potential. The recent approval of Lumason/SonoVue in the United States, Europe and China for pediatric intravesical applications marked the beginning of a new era for this type of contrast US imaging. Consequently, the use of ceVUS in children has expanded to multiple places around the globe. In the first part of this review article, we describe the current experience in the use of ceVUS for VUR evaluation, with an emphasis on historical background, examination technique, image interpretation and diagnostic accuracy. In the second part, we will present the role of ceVUS for urethral imaging in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Ntoulia
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | | | - Susan J Back
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.,Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Richard D Bellah
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.,Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Viviana P Beltrán Salazar
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitari Parc Tauli - Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pui Kwan Joyce Chan
- Department of Radiology, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong (SAR), People's Republic of China
| | - Jeanne S Chow
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David Coca Robinot
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kassa Darge
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.,Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carmina Duran
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitari Parc Tauli - Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Monica Epelman
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children's Health System/Nemours Children's Hospital, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Damjana Ključevšek
- Department of Radiology, University Children's Hospital Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jeannie K Kwon
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Preet Kiran Sandhu
- Department of Radiology, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Magdalena M Woźniak
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Ntoulia A, Anupindi SA, Back SJ, Didier RA, Hwang M, Johnson AM, McCarville MB, Papadopoulou F, Piskunowicz M, Sellars ME, Darge K. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound: a comprehensive review of safety in children. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:2161-2180. [PMID: 34716453 PMCID: PMC11459369 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-021-05223-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has been increasingly used in pediatric radiology practice worldwide. For nearly two decades, CEUS applications have been performed with the off-label use of gas-containing second-generation ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs). Since 2016, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the UCA Lumason for three pediatric indications: the evaluation of focal liver lesions and echocardiography via intravenous administration and the assessment of vesicoureteral reflux via intravesical application (contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography, ceVUS). Prior to the FDA approval of Lumason, numerous studies with the use of second-generation UCAs had been conducted in adults and children. Comprehensive protocols for clinical safety evaluations have demonstrated the highly favorable safety profile of UCA for intravenous, intravesical and other intracavitary uses. The safety data on CEUS continue to accumulate as this imaging modality is increasingly utilized in clinical settings worldwide. As of August 2021, 57 pediatric-only original research studies encompassing a total of 4,518 children with 4,906 intravenous CEUS examinations had been published. As in adults, there were a few adverse events; the majority of these were non-serious, although very rarely serious anaphylactic reactions were reported. In the published pediatric-only intravenous CEUS studies included in our analysis, the overall incidence rate of serious adverse events was 0.22% (10/4,518) of children and 0.20% (10/4,906) of all CEUS examinations. Non-serious adverse events from the intravenous CEUS were observed in 1.20% (54/4,518) of children and 1.10% (54/4,906) of CEUS examinations. During the same time period, 31 studies with the intravesical use of UCA were conducted in 12,362 children. A few non-serious adverse events were encountered (0.31%; 38/12,362), but these were most likely attributable to the bladder catheterization rather than the UCA. Other developing clinical applications of UCA in children, including intracavitary and intralymphatic, are ongoing. To date, no serious adverse events have been reported with these applications. This article reviews the existing pediatric CEUS literature and provides an overview of safety-related information reported from UCA uses in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Ntoulia
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Sudha A Anupindi
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan J Back
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ryne A Didier
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Misun Hwang
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ann M Johnson
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - M Beth McCarville
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | - Maria E Sellars
- Department of Radiology, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kassa Darge
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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12
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Marschner CA, Schwarze V, Stredele R, Froelich MF, Rübenthaler J, Geyer T, Clevert DA. Safety assessment and diagnostic evaluation of patients undergoing contrast-enhanced urosonography in the setting of vesicoureteral reflux confirmation. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2021; 79:65-72. [PMID: 34487027 DOI: 10.3233/ch-219110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) represents a common pediatric anomaly in children with an upper urinary tract infection (UTI) and is defined as a retrograde flow of urine from the bladder into the upper urinary tract. There are many diagnostic options available, including voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and contrasted-enhanced urosonography (ceVUS). ceVUS combines a diagnostic tool with a high sensitivity and specificity which, according to previous study results, was even shown to be superior to VCUG. Nevertheless, despite the recommendation of the EFSUMB, the ceVUS has not found a widespread use in clinical diagnostics in Europe yet. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between 2016 and 2020, 49 patients with a marked female dominance (n = 37) were included. The youngest patient had an age of 5 months, the oldest patient 60 years. The contrast agent used in ceVUS was SonoVue®, a second-generation blood-pool agent. All examinations were performed and interpreted by a single experienced radiologist (EFSUMB Level 3). RESULTS The 49 patients included in the study showed no adverse effects. 51% of patients (n = 26) were referred with the initial diagnosis of suspected VUR, while 49% of patients (n = 23) came for follow-up examination or to rule out recurrence of VUR. The vast majority had at least one febrile urinary tract infection in their recent medical history (n = 45; 91,8%). CONCLUSION ceVUS is an examination method with a low risk profile which represents with its high sensitivity and specificity an excellent diagnostic tool in the evaluation of vesicoureteral reflux, especially in consideration of a generally very young patient cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vincent Schwarze
- Department of Radiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Regina Stredele
- Department of Urology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias F Froelich
- Institute of Clinical Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Geyer
- Department of Radiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dirk-André Clevert
- Department of Radiology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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13
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Sofia C, Solazzo A, Cattafi A, Chimenz R, Cicero G, Marino MA, D'angelo T, Manti L, Condorelli E, Ceravolo G, Mazziotti S, Ascenti G. Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography in the assessment of vesical-ureteral reflux: the time has come. Radiol Med 2021; 126:901-909. [PMID: 33954899 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-021-01360-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a pathological condition contradistinguished by monolateral or bilateral retrograde flow of urine from the bladder to the ureter and to the kidney. If not properly recognized and treated, VUR can potentially be associated to several complications such as recurrent infections and possible secondary scars with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Furthermore, it represents an important risk factor for nephrovascular hypertension. During the last 20 years, the diagnostic approach to this entity has passed through several, drastic changes: indeed, since its introduction in 1994 contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ceVUS) has gradually accompanied the voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) as alternative imaging technique for the diagnosis and staging of VUR. Despite a large number of papers has strongly encouraged its use in clinical practice, due to the lack of ionizing radiations and its high sensitivity rate, to date almost all the guidelines only include the VCUG for VUR diagnosis. The introduction of technologically advanced US software and the approval of the intravesical administration of ultrasound contrast agents by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and by the European Medicine Agency (EMA) have to induce the Scientific Community to a deep revaluation of the role of ceVUS in the diagnosis and follow-up of VUR: urosonography might extensively replace VCUG as the reference method, reserving to cystourethrography a role in the most complex anatomic settings for pre-surgical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Sofia
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Solazzo
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Cattafi
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy.
| | - Roberto Chimenz
- Unit of Pediatric Nephrology With Dialysis, Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cicero
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Adele Marino
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Tommaso D'angelo
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Lauretta Manti
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Elvira Condorelli
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Giorgia Ceravolo
- Unit of Emergency Pediatric, Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Messina, Italy
| | - Silvio Mazziotti
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - Giorgio Ascenti
- Section of Radiological Sciences, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, "G. Martino" Policlinic, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
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