Differentiation of breast masses using 3-D sonographic and echo-enhancer-based evaluation of the vascular pattern: initial experiences

To evaluate the potential of combined 3-D B-mode and color Doppler (CD) data sets in the differentiation of breast masses, in 50 patients with histologically proven solid breast lesions, 3-D datasets were acquired. A 3-D display was created and volume calculation of tumors, their periphery and vasculature was performed. Time-intensity curves of enhancement after administration of a contrast agent were analyzed. Volumetry of tumor vasculature yielded no significant differences between malignant and benign tumors regarding vascularization of the center (2.60 vs. 2.88%) and periphery (6.66 vs. 3.78%). Only the mean values for the rise time in the center of the tumor, fibroadenoma (FA): 5.7 s and ductal invasive carcinoma (DIC): 15.8s; p = 0.05, and the time to peak in the periphery, FA: 21.0 s and DIC: 31.6 s; p = 0.03, differed significantly. The 3-D ultrasound (US) technique was of no additional value in differentiating breast masses. The calculation of time-intensity curves after administration of a contrast agent may be helpful in differentiating FA and DIC.