Can high resolution micro-ultrasound replace MRI in the diagnosis of prostate cancer?

• Published in: European urology focus Vol. 6; no. 2; pp. 419 - 423
• Main Author: Laurence Klotz, C.M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 15.03.2020
• Subjects: High resolution micro ultrasound; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Prostate cancer; Prostate imaging; Prostate ultrasound; Prostatic Neoplasms - diagnostic imaging; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography - methods; Prostate cancer; Prostate imaging; Prostate ultrasound; High resolution micro ultrasound
• ISSN: 2405-4569; 2405-4569
• DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2019.11.006

High resolution micro-ultrasound (micro-u/s) is a novel technology that permits visualization of lesions suspicious for prostate cancer. The resolution of 70 μ, that of a prostatic duct, means that alterations in ductal anatomy and cellular density are readily apparent. Initial experience in multiple centers comparing it to mpMRI suggests that the sensitivity for clinically significant prostate cancer is comparable or superior. Specificity is comparable or mildly reduced. Micro-u/s is an inexpensive, accessible and convenient alternative to mpMRI for imaging and diagnosing prostate cancer. High resolution micro-ultrasound has a resolution of 70 microns, which allows for imaging of prostate cancer based on similar principles of alteration of ductal anatomy as mpMRI. Based on initial experience, the sensitivity of micro-ultrasound for clinically significant cancer appears comparable to MRI. The technology has advantages in terms of cost, accessibility, and combining PCa imaging and targeted biopsy in a single procedure. Validation studies are currently ongoing.