Advances in Ultrasound for the Detection of Prostate Cancer

Summary: The introduction of ultrasound (US) microbubble contrast agents has dra-matically expanded the possibilities for US detection of prostate cancer. Recent ad-vances in US technology have increased the value of US contrast agents. Many newer US techniques, which are quite sensitive for detection of microbubbles, are yet to be explored for prostate applications. A critical evaluation of the current status of trans-rectal US imaging for the detection of prostate cancer and background information for US contrast agents and imaging techniques are presented. Early results have demon-strated the feasibility of US contrast agents to enhance US imaging of prostatic disease. The application of US contrast agents for the detection and clinical staging of prostate cancer is promising. Future clinical trials are needed to determine whether the promise of contrast-enhanced US of the prostate will evolve into widespread clinical applica-tion. Key Words: Ultrasound—Doppler studies—Ultrasound contrast agents— Prostate—Diseases. Objectives: After reading this article and completing the posttest, the reader should be able to