The expert told about the peculiarities of ultrasound in oncology

Cancer occupies one of the first places in mortality, and the key factor in fighting it is timely diagnosis. The method of ultrasound (ultrasound) is constantly improving and is now increasingly used for early detection of tumors of various localizations. Dmitry Ruban, an ultrasound diagnostician at Gastro Clinic, told Izvestia on January 28 why ultrasound in conjunction with modern technologies opens new horizons in oncologic diagnostics and what prospects it gives patients.

"Ultrasound has long been part of the standard of medical care. In oncology, ultrasound was initially used to clarify the localization of soft tissue tumors and examination of abdominal cavity organs. Today, the range of indications has expanded considerably," the expert noted.

Speaking about the capabilities of ultrasound diagnostics, he noted the high resolution. Modern ultrasound machines with improved sensors allow to visualize the smallest changes in the structure of tissues and detect nodular formations at the earliest stages

"Ultrasound with Doppler ultrasound helps to assess the vascularization of neoplasms. Malignant tumors are characterized by increased density of blood vessels: this is a sign that is alarming and requires further investigation," added the ultrasound diagnostician.

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In addition, he emphasized functional techniques. According to him, new technologies - elastography and contrast enhancement - increase the accuracy of diagnosis. Elastography measures tissue stiffness, while contrasts allow areas with pathologic blood supply to be more clearly identified.

"In recent years, scientists and doctors have been actively exploring the possibility of combining ultrasound with other diagnostic methods. Complex examination increases the accuracy of the results, reduces the likelihood that small neoplasms will be missed," explained Ruban.

He drew attention to multiparametric ultrasound. The combination of traditional imaging, Doppler and elastography gives a more complete picture of tissue condition, the doctor emphasized.

"With controversial ultrasound results, doctors are increasingly using magnetic resonance imaging: it supplements ultrasound with information about the molecular and vascular status of the tumor," - said the specialist.

The physician also noted ultrasound navigation in biopsy. Under ultrasound control, a targeted tissue sample is taken. The accuracy of the procedure increases, and the risk of errors is reduced.

"Early diagnosis often means gentler treatment and a higher chance of a full recovery. Improved ultrasound technology helps people buy time," Ruban emphasized.

Among the pros of ultrasound for patients he named accessibility and cost-effectiveness. Most clinics are equipped with ultrasound machines. The cost of the study is lower than many other visualization methods.

In addition, there is less radiation exposure with this method.

"Unlike CT scans, ultrasound does not use ionizing rays, which is especially important for patients who require repeated examinations," said the ultrasound diagnostician.

In addition, ultrasound is suitable for almost all categories of patients, including pregnant women and people with complex comorbidities.

"Small tumors that are invisible on simple visual inspection and palpation can be suspected by echographic signs. For healthcare, this means reduced mortality and costs, and for patients, improved quality and length of life. The prospects are even broader: development of elastography, combination with contrast agents, integration with MRI - all this forms new horizons of early cancer detection," Ruban concluded.

Earlier, on December 4, 2024, Suna Isakova, a medical oncologist at SberZdorovye medical company, told Izvestia that malignant neoplasms of the oral cavity and oropharynx are relatively rare - less than 10 cases per 100,000 people per year. The cause of their development is considered to be tobacco in various forms (chewing, in the form of cigarettes), as well as the use of strong alcohol, infection with human papillomavirus, especially the 16th and 18th types.