1
|
Guo L, Wu T, Lu S, Wei Y, Cui L. Evaluation of fetal cerebral microvascular status and its relationship with fetal growth and development using microvascular imaging technique. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 300:246-252. [PMID: 39043081 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
The study conducted retrospective analysis design, aiming to explore the use of Microvascular Imaging Technique (MVFI) to assess fetal cerebral microcirculation and analyze the relationship between Microvascular Index (MVI) and fetal growth and development. 100 pregnant women who met the criteria for fetal growth restriction (FGR) provided in the Expert Consensus on Fetal Growth Restriction (2019 Edition) and underwent routine prenatal examinations at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Peking University Third Hospital from January 2021 to June 2023 were selected as the study subjects. A normal fetus with a fetal weight less than 10 % can be classified as FGR, Pregnant women with fetal umbilical artery (UA) systolic and diastolic (S/D) values ≥3 were included in the observation group, while 200 pregnant women with normal fetuses were selected as the control group during the same period. The fetuses' change in both groups were measured using color Doppler ultrasound, including bi-parietal diameter (BPD), head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), and femur length (FL). The cerebral microcirculation of the fetuses in both groups was evaluated using MVFI, and the MVI values were compared. The clinical characteristics of FGR fetuses with umbilical artery S/D ratio ≥ 3 were summarized, and the correlation between fetal cerebral microvascular status and fetal growth and development was analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis. The outcomes told that the BPD, HC, AC, and FL values of the fetuses in the control group were lower the other's value (P < 0.05), and the MVI and peak systolic velocity of the middle cerebral artery (MCA-PSV) values were also lower in the control group (P < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between fetal growth and development and MVI and MCA-PSV values in FGR fetuses. In conclusion, MVFI can monitor and quantitatively analyze fetal intracranial microcirculation, visualize slow blood flow in microvascular structures, and this study provides preliminary evidence of the close relationship between fetal cerebral microcirculation and intrauterine growth and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Tianchen Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shan Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuan Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Ligang Cui
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bergmans S, Noel NCL, Masin L, Harding EG, Krzywańska AM, De Schutter JD, Ayana R, Hu C, Arckens L, Ruzycki PA, MacDonald RB, Clark BS, Moons L. Age-related dysregulation of the retinal transcriptome in African turquoise killifish. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14192. [PMID: 38742929 PMCID: PMC11320354 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14192] [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] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Age-related vision loss caused by retinal neurodegenerative pathologies is becoming more prevalent in our ageing society. To understand the physiological and molecular impact of ageing on retinal homeostasis, we used the short-lived African turquoise killifish, a model known to naturally develop central nervous system (CNS) ageing hallmarks and vision loss. Bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNAseq) of three age groups (6-, 12-, and 18-week-old) identified transcriptional ageing fingerprints in the killifish retina, unveiling pathways also identified in the aged brain, including oxidative stress, gliosis, and inflammageing. These findings were comparable to observations in the ageing mouse retina. Additionally, transcriptional changes in genes related to retinal diseases, such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration, were observed. The cellular heterogeneity in the killifish retina was characterized, confirming the presence of all typical vertebrate retinal cell types. Data integration from age-matched samples between the bulk and scRNAseq experiments revealed a loss of cellular specificity in gene expression upon ageing, suggesting potential disruption in transcriptional homeostasis. Differential expression analysis within the identified cell types highlighted the role of glial/immune cells as important stress regulators during ageing. Our work emphasizes the value of the fast-ageing killifish in elucidating molecular signatures in age-associated retinal disease and vision decline. This study contributes to the understanding of how age-related changes in molecular pathways may impact CNS health, providing insights that may inform future therapeutic strategies for age-related pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Bergmans
- Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Neural Circuit Development & Regeneration Research GroupKU Leuven, Leuven Brain InstituteLeuvenBelgium
| | | | - Luca Masin
- Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Neural Circuit Development & Regeneration Research GroupKU Leuven, Leuven Brain InstituteLeuvenBelgium
| | - Ellen G. Harding
- John F Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual SciencesWashington University School of MedicineSaint LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | - Julie D. De Schutter
- Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Neural Circuit Development & Regeneration Research GroupKU Leuven, Leuven Brain InstituteLeuvenBelgium
| | - Rajagopal Ayana
- Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and NeuroproteomicsKU Leuven, Leuven Brain InstituteLeuvenBelgium
| | - Chi‐Kuo Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell BiologyStony Brook UniversityStony BrookUSA
| | - Lut Arckens
- Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Section, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and NeuroproteomicsKU Leuven, Leuven Brain InstituteLeuvenBelgium
| | - Philip A. Ruzycki
- John F Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual SciencesWashington University School of MedicineSaint LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of GeneticsWashington University School of MedicineSaint LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | - Brian S. Clark
- John F Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual SciencesWashington University School of MedicineSaint LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of Developmental BiologyWashington University School of MedicineSaint LouisMissouriUSA
- Center of Regenerative MedicineCenter of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of MedicineSaint LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Lieve Moons
- Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology Division, Neural Circuit Development & Regeneration Research GroupKU Leuven, Leuven Brain InstituteLeuvenBelgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bergmans S, Noel NCL, Masin L, Harding EG, Krzywańska AM, De Schutter JD, Ayana R, Hu CK, Arckens L, Ruzycki PA, MacDonald RB, Clark BS, Moons L. Age-related dysregulation of the retinal transcriptome in African turquoise killifish. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.21.581372. [PMID: 38559206 PMCID: PMC10979842 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.21.581372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Age-related vision loss caused by retinal neurodegenerative pathologies is becoming more prevalent in our ageing society. To understand the physiological and molecular impact of ageing on retinal homeostasis, we used the short-lived African turquoise killifish, a model known to naturally develop central nervous system (CNS) ageing hallmarks and vision loss. Bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) of three age groups (6-, 12-, and 18-week-old) identified transcriptional ageing fingerprints in the killifish retina, unveiling pathways also identified in the aged brain, including oxidative stress, gliosis, and inflammageing. These findings were comparable to observations in ageing mouse retina. Additionally, transcriptional changes in genes related to retinal diseases, such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration, were observed. The cellular heterogeneity in the killifish retina was characterised, confirming the presence of all typical vertebrate retinal cell types. Data integration from age-matched samples between the bulk and scRNA-seq experiments revealed a loss of cellular specificity in gene expression upon ageing, suggesting potential disruption in transcriptional homeostasis. Differential expression analysis within the identified cell types highlighted the role of glial/immune cells as important stress regulators during ageing. Our work emphasises the value of the fast-ageing killifish in elucidating molecular signatures in age-associated retinal disease and vision decline. This study contributes to the understanding of how age-related changes in molecular pathways may impact CNS health, providing insights that may inform future therapeutic strategies for age-related pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Bergmans
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology division, Neural circuit development & regeneration research group, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nicole C L Noel
- University College London, Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK, EC1V 9EL
| | - Luca Masin
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology division, Neural circuit development & regeneration research group, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ellen G Harding
- Washington University School of Medicine, John F Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63110 United States of America
| | | | - Julie D De Schutter
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology division, Neural circuit development & regeneration research group, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rajagopal Ayana
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology section, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chi-Kuo Hu
- Stony Brook University, Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, 11790 Stony Brook, United States of America
| | - Lut Arckens
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology section, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity and Neuroproteomics, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip A Ruzycki
- Washington University School of Medicine, John F Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63110 United States of America
- Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Genetics, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63110 United States of America
| | - Ryan B MacDonald
- University College London, Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK, EC1V 9EL
| | - Brian S Clark
- Washington University School of Medicine, John F Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63110 United States of America
- Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Developmental Biology, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63110 United States of America
- Washington University School of Medicine, Center of Regenerative Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63110 United States of America
| | - Lieve Moons
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Biology, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology division, Neural circuit development & regeneration research group, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zeng P, Zhang Q, Liang X, Zhang M, Luo D, Chen Z. Progress of Ultrasound Techniques in the Evaluation of Carotid Vulnerable Plaque Neovascularization. Cerebrovasc Dis 2023; 53:479-487. [PMID: 37812915 DOI: 10.1159/000534372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rupture and detachment of unstable plaques in the carotid artery can cause embolism in the cerebral artery, leading to acute cerebrovascular events. Intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) is a very important contributor to carotid plaque instability, and its evolution plays a key role in determining the outcome of vulnerable plaques. Ultrasound techniques, represented by contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and superb microvascular imaging (SMI), are reported to be non-invasive, rapid, and effective techniques for the semi-quantitative or quantitative evaluation for IPN. Although ultrasound techniques have been widely applied in the detection of carotid plaque stability, it has been limited owing to the lack of unified IPN quantitative standards. SUMMARY This review summarizes the application and semi-quantitative/quantitative diagnostic standards of ultrasound techniques in evaluating IPN and looks forward to the prospects of the future research. With the development of novel techniques like artificial intelligence, ultrasound will offer appropriate selections for achieving more accuracy diagnosis. KEY MESSAGES A large number of studies have used CEUS and SMI to detect IPN and perform semi-quantitative grading to predict the occurrence of diseases such as stroke and to accurately assess drug efficacy based on rating changes. These studies have made great progress at this stage, but more accurate and intelligent quantitative imaging methods should become the future development goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penghui Zeng
- Institution of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Institution of Medical Imaging, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Medical Imaging Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Institution of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Institution of Medical Imaging, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaowen Liang
- Institution of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Institution of Medical Imaging, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Ultrasound, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Zhiyi Chen
- Institution of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, China
- Institution of Medical Imaging, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Medical Imaging Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jiang L, Zhang D, Chen YN, Yu XJ, Pan MF, Lian L. The value of conventional ultrasound combined with superb microvascular imaging and color Doppler flow imaging in the diagnosis of thyroid malignant nodules: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1182259. [PMID: 37415660 PMCID: PMC10321595 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1182259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate and compare the value of conventional ultrasound-based superb microvascular imaging (SMI) and color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) in the diagnosis of malignant thyroid nodule by meta-analysis. Methods The literature included in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase were searched by using " superb microvascular imaging (SMI), color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI), ultrasound, thyroid nodules" as the keywords from inception through February 1, 2023. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the clinical studies using SMI and CDFI to diagnose thyroid nodules were selected, and histopathology of thyroid nodules was used as reference standard. The diagnostic accuracy research quality assessment tool (QUADAS-2) was used to evaluate the quality of included literature, and the Review Manager 5.4 was used to make the quality evaluation chart. The heterogeneity test was performed on the literature that met the requirements, the combined sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio were pooled, and a comprehensive ROC curve analysis was performed. Meta-DiSc version 1.4, StataSE 12, and Review Manager 5.4 software were used. Results Finally, 13 studies were included in this meta-analysis. A total of 815 thyroid malignant nodules were assessed. All thyroid nodules were histologically confirmed after SMI or CDFI. The combined sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR, and area under the SROC curve of SMI for the diagnosis of malignant thyroid nodules were 0.80(95%CI: 0.77-0.83), 0.79(95%CI: 0.77-0.82), 4.37(95%CI: 3.0-6.36), 0.23(95%CI: 0.15-0.35), 22.29(95%CI: 12.18-40.78), and 0.8944, respectively; the corresponding values of CDFI were 0.62(95%CI: 0.57-0.67), 0.81(95%CI: 0.78-0.85), 3.33(95%CI: 2.18-5.07), 0.41(95%CI: 0.27-0.64), 8.93(95%CI: 3.96-20.16), and 0.8498. Deek funnel pattern showed no significant publication bias. Conclusion The diagnostic efficiency of SMI for malignant thyroid nodules is better than CDFI, and SMI technology can provide significantly more information on vascularity, make up for the deficiency of CDFI, and has better clinical application value. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023402064.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Jiang
- Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Ultrasound, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dian Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue-Nan Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue-Juan Yu
- Department of Ultrasound, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mei-Fang Pan
- Department of Ultrasound, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lian Lian
- Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Oncology, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yao Y, Zhang P. Novel ultrasound techniques in the identification of vulnerable plaques-an updated review of the literature. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1069745. [PMID: 37293284 PMCID: PMC10244552 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1069745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease partly mediated by lipoproteins. The rupture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques and thrombosis are major contributors to the development of acute cardiovascular events. Despite various advances in the treatment of atherosclerosis, there has been no satisfaction in the prevention and assessment of atherosclerotic vascular disease. The identification and classification of vulnerable plaques at an early stage as well as research of new treatments remain a challenge and the ultimate goal in the management of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. The specific morphological features of vulnerable plaques, including intraplaque hemorrhage, large lipid necrotic cores, thin fibrous caps, inflammation, and neovascularisation, make it possible to identify and characterize plaques with a variety of invasive and non-invasive imaging techniques. Notably, the development of novel ultrasound techniques has introduced the traditional assessment of plaque echogenicity and luminal stenosis to a deeper assessment of plaque composition and the molecular field. This review will discuss the advantages and limitations of five currently available ultrasound imaging modalities for assessing plaque vulnerability, based on the biological characteristics of the vulnerable plaque, and their value in terms of clinical diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment efficacy assessment.
Collapse
|
7
|
Cui E, Kersche G, Grubic N, Hétu MF, Pang SC, Sillesen H, Johri AM. Effect of pharmacologic anti-atherosclerotic therapy on carotid intraplaque neovascularization: A systematic review. J Clin Lipidol 2023; 17:315-326. [PMID: 37173161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2023.04.009] [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] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Intraplaque neovascularization (IPN), a key feature of vulnerable carotid plaque, is associated with adverse cardiovascular (CV) events. Statin therapy has been shown to diminish and stabilize atherosclerotic plaque, but its effect on IPN is uncertain. This review investigated the effects of common pharmacologic anti-atherosclerotic therapies on carotid IPN. Electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Library) were searched from inception until July 13, 2022. Studies evaluating the effect of anti-atherosclerotic therapy on carotid IPN among adults with carotid atherosclerosis were included. Sixteen studies were eligible for inclusion. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was the most common IPN assessment modality (n=8), followed by dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) (n=4), excised plaque histology (n=3) and superb microvascular imaging (n=2). In fifteen studies, statins were the therapy of interest and one study assessed PCSK9 inhibitors. Among CEUS studies, baseline statin use was associated with a lower frequency of carotid IPN (median OR = 0.45). Prospective studies showed regression of IPN after 6-12 months of lipid-lowering therapy, with more regression observed in treated participants compared to untreated controls. Our findings suggest that lipid-lowering therapy with statins or PCSK9 inhibitors is associated with IPN regression. However, there was no correlation between change in IPN parameters and change in serum lipids and inflammatory markers in statin-treated participants, so it is unclear whether these factors are mediators in the observed IPN changes. Lastly, this review was limited by study heterogeneity and small sample sizes, so larger trials are needed to validate findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward Cui
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Kingston, Canada (Drs Cui, Kersche, Grubic, Hétu, Johri)
| | - Georgia Kersche
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Kingston, Canada (Drs Cui, Kersche, Grubic, Hétu, Johri)
| | - Nicholas Grubic
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Kingston, Canada (Drs Cui, Kersche, Grubic, Hétu, Johri)
| | - Marie-France Hétu
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Kingston, Canada (Drs Cui, Kersche, Grubic, Hétu, Johri)
| | - Stephen C Pang
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada (Dr Pang)
| | - Henrik Sillesen
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (Dr Sillesen); Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark (Dr Sillesen)
| | - Amer M Johri
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's (CINQ), Queen's University, Kingston, Canada (Drs Cui, Kersche, Grubic, Hétu, Johri).
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guo Y, Wang X, Wang L, Wei X, Duan Y, Yang X, Zhang M, Zhao B. The Value of Superb Microvascular Imaging and Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound for the Evaluation of Neovascularization in Carotid Artery Plaques. Acad Radiol 2023; 30:403-411. [PMID: 36123231 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the consistency between superb microvascular imaging (SMI) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for the detection of neovascularization in carotid plaques of different thicknesses and to evaluate the applied value of these two methods for detecting neovascularization in carotid plaques in the clinic. METHODS A total of 45 patients with carotid artery plaques who were diagnosed in our hospital involving 76 hypoechoic plaques with a thickness ≥2.0 mm were selected. According to thickness, the plaques were divided into three groups: 2.0-2.5 mm, 2.5-3.0 mm and ≥3.0 mm. Each group underwent both SMI and CEUS, and two experienced sonographers (A and B) analyzed the ultrasound images to evaluate the neovascularization of carotid plaques. The amount of the neovascular signal was assessed using a semi-quantitative grading scale (vascularity grade: grade 0-3). SMI and CEUS were graded respectively according to the visual methods as follows: grade 0: no blood flow signal/enhancement within plaques; grade 1: a few blood flow signals/enhancement within plaques; grade 2: medium blood flow signals/enhancement within plaques; and grade 3: extensive blood flow signals/enhancement within plaques. Kappa consistency test was used to analyze the consistency of the grade of neovascularization in plaques between SMI with CEUS. Gamma rank correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation between neovascularization grade by SMI and CEUS in plaque and plaque thickness. RESULTS Of these patients, 14 had unilateral plaques and 31 had bilateral plaques. The two sonographers were highly consistent in terms of applying SMI and CEUS methods for diagnosing neovascularization in carotid plaques (Kappa values were 0.736 and 0.680>0). Consistency was found between SMI and CEUS by sonographers (sonographer A: Kappa=0.823; sonographer B: Kappa=0.842) in evaluating the neovascular grade in the carotid plaques. SMI and CEUS grades were positively correlated with plaque thickness (sonographer A: γ = 0.735 and 0.772; sonographer B: γ = 0.805 and 0.798). CONCLUSION Neovascularization in carotid plaques was successfully detected by SMI in a manner that concurred well with CEUS results. Our data indicate that both CEUS and SMI have high diagnostic value for assessing the neovascularization of plaques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanqin Guo
- the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xinghua Wang
- the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaoli Wei
- the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yinling Duan
- the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaohuan Yang
- the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Min Zhang
- the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Shanxi Medical University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Shanxi Province Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases Prevention and New Materials, Taiyuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Liu FJ, Ci WP, Cheng Y. Clinical study of carotid superb microvascular imaging in evaluating the activity of Takayasu's arteritis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1051862. [PMID: 36950292 PMCID: PMC10025289 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1051862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The goal of this study is to use superb microvascular imaging (SMI) to observe neovascularization in the carotid vessel wall to identify potential Takayasu's arteritis (TAK) inflammation markers. Methods Bilateral carotid arteries from 96 patients with TAK were imaged by a Doppler ultrasound and SMI. The one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to document significant differences between the activity and inactivity stages of TAK and the factors closely related to its activity in the binary logistics regression equation. Clinical and laboratory data included age, gender, duration of disease, treatment history, NIH score, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Imaging data included the arterial wall thickness, degree of lesion, SMI grade, and arterial aneurysm formation. Results There were 45 patients in the active TAK stage and 51 in the inactive stage. The one-way ANOVA showed significant differences in SMI (p = 0.001) and ESR (p = 0.022) between the active and inactive groups. The binary logistics regression analysis showed that SMI was an independent risk factor for TAK activity (B = -1.505, S.E = 0.340, Wald = 19.528, OR = 0.222 95%, CI = 0.114-0.433, p < 0.01). Using SMI G1 or G2 as the cutoff values for the diagnosis of active TAK, the positive predictive value, sensitivity, and specificity were 60 and 86%, 84% and 56%, and 54% and 92%, respectively. Conclusion The SMI grade is a potential marker of disease activity in patients with TAK.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Ju Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung, and Blood Vessel Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Feng-Ju Liu,
| | - Wei-Ping Ci
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung, and Blood Vessel Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Cheng
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung, and Blood Vessel Diseases, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen J, Liu D, Wang J, Song W, Ma F. Clinical application of super sensitive microflow ultrasound on the detection of intraplaque neovascularization in patients with atheromatous carotid artery plaque. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2022; 82:283-293. [PMID: 35912734 DOI: 10.3233/ch-221510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a routine technique for detecting intraplaque neovascularization (IPN). However, the invasiveness and complexity of CEUS severely limit its clinical application. This article aims to investigate the application value of AngioPLUS (AP) technique in assessing IPN formation in patients with atheromatous (AS) carotid artery plaque. METHODS Patients diagnosed with carotid artery atherosclerosis combined plaque formation were recruited and their demographic characteristics including serum fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were collected. AP was used to scoring intraplaque microvascular flow (IMVF), measuring the thickness and length of the plaque and determining the number of IPN of the plaque. RESULTS IMVF score evaluated by AP was positively correlated with plaque length, thickness, IPN number, serum TG, LDL and FBG levels in patients with carotid atherosclerosis with plaque. The evaluation results of CEUS score and IMVF classification detected by AP of plaques were consistent in patients with carotid atherosclerosis. CONCLUSION IMVF scoring by AP is a promising approach to assess IPN and plaque status in patients with atheromatous carotid artery plaque.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Chen
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, China
| | - Dandan Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, China
| | - Wanji Song
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, China
| | - Fang Ma
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second People's Hospital of Hefei, Hefei Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gülsaran U, Ustabaşıoğlu F, Günay B, Ustabaşıoğlu FE. Evaluation of Accuracy of Shear Wave Elastography and Superb Microvascular Imaging Methods in Diagnosis of Piriformis Syndrome: A Preliminary Study. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2022; 48:2521-2529. [PMID: 36123220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.08.004] [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: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Piriformis syndrome is a neuromuscular disease resulting from sciatic nerve compression caused by an abnormal condition in the piriformis muscle. Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) is a new ultrasound imaging technique that visualizes low-velocity and small-diameter blood vessel flow. In our prospectively designed study, we aimed to evaluate the accuracy of diagnosis of piriformis syndrome with innovative methods such as shear wave elastography (SWE) and SMI. Thirty-two patients diagnosed with unilateral piriformis syndrome were accepted to the statistical stage. The side without symptoms was considered the "unaffected side." Bilateral piriformis muscles were examined by ultrasonography. Muscle thickness was determined on gray scale, stiffness on SWE and vascularity characteristics on power Doppler and SMI by two independent radiologists. Piriformis muscle stiffness on the non-pathological (unaffected) side was measured by SWE as 18.27 ± 7.301 kPa, and the mean stiffness on the pathological side was 29.70 ± 10.095 kPa. Pathological side muscle stiffness was significantly higher (p < 0.05). Using innovative methods such as SWE and SMI in addition to conventional ultrasonography as much as possible in our daily practice and research helps us in making the correct diagnosis in piriformis syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uğur Gülsaran
- Department of Radiology, Edirne Sultan First Murat State Hospital, Edirne, Turkey.
| | - Fatma Ustabaşıoğlu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Edirne Sultan First Murat State Hospital, Edirne, Turkey.
| | - Burak Günay
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, Edirne, Turkey.
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Singh A, Nasir U, Segal J, Waheed TA, Ameen M, Hafeez H. The utility of ultrasound and computed tomography in the assessment of carotid artery plaque vulnerability-A mini review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:1023562. [PMID: 36465468 PMCID: PMC9709330 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1023562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
As the burden of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events continues to increase, emerging evidence supports the concept of plaque vulnerability as a strong marker of plaque rupture, and embolization. Qualitative assessment of the plaque can identify the degree of plaque instability. Ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) have emerged as safe and accurate techniques for the assessment of plaque vulnerability. Plaque features including but not limited to surface ulceration, large lipid core, thin fibrous cap (FC), intraplaque neovascularization and hemorrhage can be assessed and are linked to plaque instability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aniruddha Singh
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Usama Nasir
- Tower Health, West Reading, PA, United States
| | - Jared Segal
- Tower Health, West Reading, PA, United States
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Aziz MU, Eisenbrey JR, Deganello A, Zahid M, Sharbidre K, Sidhu P, Robbin ML. Microvascular Flow Imaging: A State-of-the-Art Review of Clinical Use and Promise. Radiology 2022; 305:250-264. [PMID: 36165794 PMCID: PMC9619200 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.213303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Vascular imaging with color and power Doppler is a useful tool in the assessment of various disease processes. Assessment of blood flow, from infarction and ischemia to hyperemia, in organs, neoplasms, and vessels, is used in nearly every US investigation. Recent developments in this area are sensitive to small-vessel low velocity flow without use of intravenous contrast agents, known as microvascular flow imaging (MVFI). MVFI is more sensitive in detection of small vessels than color, power, and spectral Doppler, reducing the need for follow-up contrast-enhanced US (CEUS), CT, and MRI, except when arterial and venous wash-in and washout characteristics would be helpful in diagnosis. Varying clinical applications of MVFI are reviewed in adult and pediatric populations, including its technical underpinnings. MVFI shows promise in assessment of several conditions including benign and malignant lesions in the liver and kidney, acute pathologic abnormalities in the gallbladder and testes, and superficial lymph nodes. Future potential of MVFI in different conditions (eg, endovascular repair) is discussed. Finally, clinical cases in which MVFI correlated and potentially obviated additional CEUS, CT, or MRI are shown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Usman Aziz
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, 619 S 19th St, Suite JTN361, Birmingham, AL 35233 (M.U.A., M.Z.,
K.S., M.L.R.); Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University,
Philadelphia, Pa (J.R.E.); and Department of Radiology, King’s College
London, King’s College Hospital, London, UK (A.D., P.S.)
| | - John R. Eisenbrey
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, 619 S 19th St, Suite JTN361, Birmingham, AL 35233 (M.U.A., M.Z.,
K.S., M.L.R.); Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University,
Philadelphia, Pa (J.R.E.); and Department of Radiology, King’s College
London, King’s College Hospital, London, UK (A.D., P.S.)
| | - Annamaria Deganello
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, 619 S 19th St, Suite JTN361, Birmingham, AL 35233 (M.U.A., M.Z.,
K.S., M.L.R.); Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University,
Philadelphia, Pa (J.R.E.); and Department of Radiology, King’s College
London, King’s College Hospital, London, UK (A.D., P.S.)
| | - Mohd Zahid
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, 619 S 19th St, Suite JTN361, Birmingham, AL 35233 (M.U.A., M.Z.,
K.S., M.L.R.); Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University,
Philadelphia, Pa (J.R.E.); and Department of Radiology, King’s College
London, King’s College Hospital, London, UK (A.D., P.S.)
| | - Kedar Sharbidre
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, 619 S 19th St, Suite JTN361, Birmingham, AL 35233 (M.U.A., M.Z.,
K.S., M.L.R.); Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University,
Philadelphia, Pa (J.R.E.); and Department of Radiology, King’s College
London, King’s College Hospital, London, UK (A.D., P.S.)
| | - Paul Sidhu
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, 619 S 19th St, Suite JTN361, Birmingham, AL 35233 (M.U.A., M.Z.,
K.S., M.L.R.); Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University,
Philadelphia, Pa (J.R.E.); and Department of Radiology, King’s College
London, King’s College Hospital, London, UK (A.D., P.S.)
| | - Michelle L. Robbin
- From the Department of Radiology, University of Alabama at
Birmingham, 619 S 19th St, Suite JTN361, Birmingham, AL 35233 (M.U.A., M.Z.,
K.S., M.L.R.); Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University,
Philadelphia, Pa (J.R.E.); and Department of Radiology, King’s College
London, King’s College Hospital, London, UK (A.D., P.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tang K, Liu M, Zhu Y, Zhang M, Niu C. The clinical application of ultrasonography with superb microvascular imaging-a review. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2022; 50:721-732. [PMID: 35358353 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) is among the latest doppler ultrasound methods. It uses an advanced clutter filter to eliminate artifacts caused by breathing, movement and retains the low-speed blood signals in microvessels. The great advantage of SMI is that it can intuitively detect very slow blood signals in microvessels, providing clinicians with more significant information about flow distribution in the target area. Therefore, it is speculated that SMI has important application value. The purpose of this article is to outline the application of SMI in different parts of the body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kui Tang
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnosis, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Minghui Liu
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnosis, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yun Zhu
- Department of Ultrasound Imaging, The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnosis, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chengcheng Niu
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnosis, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li Y, Zheng S, Zhang J, Wang F, He W. Multimodal ultrasound parameters aided carotid plaque risk stratification in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis. Acta Radiol 2022; 63:278-286. [PMID: 33525913 DOI: 10.1177/0284185121989189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risk stratification of asymptomatic carotid plaque remains an issue in stroke prevention in clinical practice. PURPOSE To investigate whether a multimodal ultrasound (MMU) model would help plaque risk stratification in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective study was conducted of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with > 50% proximal internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis. All patients underwent MMU examination. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to identify parameters associated with ischemic vascular events (IVE). These parameters were used to develop a scoring nomogram to assess the probability of IVE. We elaborated the diagnostic performance of the MMU nomogram using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. RESULTS From December 2018 to December 2019, 98 patients (75 men, mean age 67 ± 8 years) were included; 50 were symptomatic and 48 were asymptomatic. Multivariable regression analyses revealed that plaque surface morphology (PSM) (odds ratio [OR] 2.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-7.12, P = 0.013), intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) grades (OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.77-5.89, P<0.001), and carotid stenosis degree (CSD) (OR 4.12, 95% CI 1.47-11.55, P = 0.007) were independently associated with IVE. For the nomogram, the area under the ROC curve was 0.85 (95% CI 0.77-0.92) and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test P value was 0.822. CONCLUSIONS In patients with proximal ICA > 50%, PSM, IPN grades, and CSD were independent variables associated with IVE. The MMU nomogram provided favorable value to risk stratification of IVE. Future large-scale studies with long-term follow-up are needed to validate these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Shuai Zheng
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jinghan Zhang
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Fumin Wang
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Wen He
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Song Y, Xing H, Zhang Z, Felix LO. Detection of Carotid Atherosclerotic Intraplaque Neovascularization Using Superb Microvascular Imaging: A Meta-Analysis. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2021; 40:2629-2638. [PMID: 33587302 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although superb microvascular imaging (SMI) (Toshiba/Canon, Tokyo, Japan) has enabled routine characterization of intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) features in patients with carotid stenosis, no reports have been published on the multicenter and large sample size research in this aspect. The efficacy of SMI in detecting carotid IPN has not been concluded. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of SMI comparing with contrast-enhanced carotid ultrasonography (CEUS) in the detection of carotid IPN or pathologic evaluations of IPN correlated with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). METHODS Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched up to August 2020 to identify peer-reviewed human studies on the diagnostic accuracy of SMI in detecting IPN. For the selected study, the correlation coefficient R and Kappa index between SMI and CEUS in detecting IPN were calculated. The correlation coefficient R between SMI in identifying IPN and pathologic evaluations of IPN and the odds ratio of IPN detected by SMI and history of stroke or TIA were also extracted. The subgroup analysis was performed to indicate the source of heterogeneity. RESULTS Our search identified 11 reports enrolling a total of 605 carotid stenosis patients. Carotid IPN detected by SMI was significantly correlated with which detected by CEUS (R, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-0.94; P = .00, and Kappa index, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.67-0.80; P = .00). Notably, a significant correlation was observed in SMI in detecting IPN and pathologic evaluations of IPN (R, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.40-0.62; P = .00). The odds ratio of IPN detected by SMI and history of stroke or TIA was pooled summary with statistical significance (OR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.78-6.23; P = .00). In subgroup analysis, lower heterogeneity was associated with the degree of carotid stenosis, patients from which country, and types of equipment. CONCLUSIONS SMI and CEUS display an excellent agreement in detecting carotid IPN. IPN detected by SMI shows high consistency with pathologic evaluations of IPN. Individuals with carotid IPN are more likely to develop stroke or TIA than those without carotid IPN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Song
- Department of Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Hang Xing
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Zhiqi Zhang
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Lewis Oscar Felix
- Infectious Diseases Division, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wang Y, Yao M, Zou M, Ge Z, Cai S, Hong Y, Gao L, Zhang L, Dong Y, Peng B, Wang H, Li J. Relationship Between Serum Lipid Profiles and Carotid Intraplaque Neovascularization in a High-Stroke-Risk Population: A Cross-Sectional Study in China. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e021545. [PMID: 34755547 PMCID: PMC8751941 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.021545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Evidence of the association between serum lipid profiles and intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) is still limited. We aimed to study the value of a novel Doppler method, superb microvascular imaging, in correlating serum lipid profiles and evidence of IPN in a population with a high risk of stroke. Methods and Results A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted in Beijing, China. Residents (aged ≥40 years) underwent questionnaire interviews, physical examinations, and laboratory testing in 2018 and 2019. Subjects with a high risk of stroke were then selected. Standard carotid ultrasound and carotid plaque superb microvascular imaging examinations were then performed on the high–stroke‐risk participants. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the relationship between serum lipid profiles and carotid plaque IPN. Overall, a total of 250 individuals (mean age, 67.20±8.12 years; 66.4% men) met the study inclusion criteria. Superb microvascular imaging revealed carotid plaque IPN in 96 subjects (38.4%). Subjects with IPN were more likely to be current smokers (34.0% versus 46.9%, P=0.046), and their identified carotid plaques were much thicker (2.35±0.63 mm versus 2.75±0.80 mm, P=0.001). Serum lipids, including total cholesterol, non–high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were positively associated with the presence of IPN (4.33±1.00 mmol/L versus 4.79±1.12 mmol/L, P=0.001; 2.96±0.92 mmol/L versus 3.40±1.01 mmol/L, P=0.001; 2.18±0.76 mmol/L versus 2.46±0.80 mmol/L, P=0.005, respectively), and after adjustment for other confounders, the positive relationship remained significant. Furthermore, non–high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (odds ratio, 2.62 [95% CI, 1.35–5.06]) was significantly associated with the presence of carotid plaque IPN even after adjusting for low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Conclusions Total cholesterol, non–high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were positively associated with the presence of carotid IPN in a Chinese high–stroke‐risk population. Further prospective studies should be conducted to better understand how much finding IPN adds to current stroke prediction tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Ming Yao
- Department of Neurology Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Mi Zou
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Zhitong Ge
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Siman Cai
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Yuehui Hong
- Department of Neurology Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Luying Gao
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Yifan Dong
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Bin Peng
- Department of Neurology Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| | - Jianchu Li
- Department of Ultrasound State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases Peking Union Medical College Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College Beijing China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Oura K, Yamaguchi Oura M, Itabashi R, Maeda T. Vascular Imaging Techniques to Diagnose and Monitor Patients with Takayasu Arteritis: A Review of the Literature. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11111993. [PMID: 34829340 PMCID: PMC8620366 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11111993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a large vessel vasculitis that causes stenosis, occlusion, and sometimes the aneurysm of the aorta and its major branches. TA often occurs in young women, and because the symptoms are not obvious in the early stages of the disease, diagnosis is difficult and often delayed. In approximately 10% to 20% of patients, TA is reportedly complicated by ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack. It is important to diagnose TA early and provide appropriate treatment to prevent complications from stroke. Diagnostic imaging techniques to visualize arterial stenosis are widely used in clinical practice. Even if no signs of cerebrovascular events are present at the time of the most recent evaluation of patients with TA, follow-up vascular imaging is important to monitor disease progression and changes in the cerebrovascular risk. However, the optimal imaging technique for monitoring of TA has not been established. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to describe newly available evidence on the usefulness of conventional imaging modalities (digital subtraction angiography, computed tomography angiography, magnetic resonance imaging/angiography, duplex ultrasound, and positron emission tomography) and novel imaging modalities (optical coherence tomography, infrared thermography, contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, and superb microvascular imaging) in the diagnosis and monitoring of TA.
Collapse
|
19
|
Tan KA, Inderjeeth C, Jansen S. Potential for novel imaging techniques to monitor early disease progression in connective tissue disease vasculopathy. Intern Med J 2021; 51:1530-1534. [PMID: 34541763 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Vasculopathy associated with connective tissue diseases (CTD) has diverse clinical presentations and complex underlying pathology. Existing imaging techniques remain inadequate for assessing vasculopathy in CTD, particularly in earlier stages of pathogenesis. Novel imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography, near-infrared spectroscopy and superb microvascular imaging, demonstrate potential in monitoring disease progression at earlier stages prior to systemic complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kah Aik Tan
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Heart and Vascular Research Institute, Harry Perkins Medical Research Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Charles Inderjeeth
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Osborne Park Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Linear Clinical Research, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shirley Jansen
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Heart and Vascular Research Institute, Harry Perkins Medical Research Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Meng Q, Xie X, Li L, Jiang C, Zhao K, Bai Z, Zheng Z, Yang Y, Yu Y, Zhang H, Zhao X. Assessment of neovascularization of carotid artery atherosclerotic plaques using superb microvascular imaging: a comparison with contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging and histology. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:1958-1969. [PMID: 33936978 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of superb microvascular imaging (SMI), a novel non-contrast-enhanced ultrasound technique, in characterizing neovessels within carotid atherosclerotic plaques through comparison with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and histology. Methods Patients with carotid plaque were recruited and underwent SMI and CEUS ultrasound imaging of the carotid arteries. The maximum plaque thickness, length, and stenosis of each plaque were measured. Grade of the neovessels was determined by SMI and CEUS, respectively. Grade 0 was defined as no blood flow signal/microbubbles within plaques; grade 1 was defined as moderate blood flow signals/microbubbles confined to the shoulder and/or adventitial side of the plaque; and grade 2 was defined as extensive intraplaque signals/microbubbles. Patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis (stenosis ≥50%) or asymptomatic carotid stenosis (stenosis ≥70%) underwent endarterectomy, and plaque specimens were subjected to immunohistochemical analysis of CD31 expression. The neovessels were quantified by histology. The agreement of SMI with CEUS and histology in characterizing neovessels was analyzed using weighted Kappa statistic and Spearman's correlation analyses. Results Seventy-eight patients (mean age: 67.3±8.9 years old, 63 males) were recruited. Of these patients, 52 (66.7%) had a unilateral plaque and 26 (33.3%) had bilateral plaques in the carotid arteries. For the 104 carotid plaques detected, the mean plaque thickness and length were 4.3±1.1 and 18.8±6.6 mm, respectively. The prevalence of <50%, 50-69%, and ≥70% stenosis was 43.3%, 24.0%, and 32.7%, respectively. Excellent agreement was found between SMI and CEUS (κ=0.825 at the plaque level; κ=0.820 at the patient level) in evaluating the neovessel grade within the carotid plaques. Of the 25 patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy, a strong correlation (r=0.660, P<0.001) was found between SMI and histology in the evaluation of intraplaque neovessels. SMI had excellent scan-rescan (κ=0.857), intra-reader (κ=0.810), and inter-reader (κ=0.754) agreement in the assessment of intraplaque neovessels. Conclusions The SMI technique is capable of reliably characterizing neovessels within carotid atherosclerotic plaques and demonstrates good to excellent agreement with histology and CEUS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Meng
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xia Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Jiang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Keqiang Zhao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyong Bai
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuozhao Zheng
- Department of Radiology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Huabin Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xihai Zhao
- Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua University School of Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sato W, Suto Y, Yamanaka T, Watanabe H. An advanced ultrasound application used to assess peripheral vascular diseases: superb microvascular imaging. J Echocardiogr 2021; 19:150-157. [PMID: 33856650 DOI: 10.1007/s12574-021-00527-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Over the past several years, a novel ultrasound imaging modality termed superb microvascular imaging (SMI) has enabled visualization of microvessels. SMI ultrasound studies of peripheral artery diseases have significantly extended our knowledge of tissue microcirculation and the arterial microenvironments of atherosclerotic lesions. We here present an overview of current knowledge on the utility of SMI assessment of vascular diseases and highlight certain peripheral microcirculation disorders for which SMI is particularly valuable. The evidence indicates that SMI can detect intraplaque neovascularization and usefully assess carotid plaque vulnerability; vascularization of the carotid arterial wall detected by SMI is a potential marker of disease activity in patients with Takayasu arteritis; SMI reveals the foot microcirculation and yields a quantitative vascular index (in line with the angiosome concept); and, SMI may serve as an auxiliary diagnostic modality for hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and Raynaud syndrome. In general, microcirculatory evaluation by SMI is an attractive field for future research on therapeutic strategies for peripheral vascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wakana Sato
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1, Hondoh, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Yuta Suto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1, Hondoh, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Takayuki Yamanaka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1, Hondoh, Akita, 010-8543, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Watanabe
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1, Hondoh, Akita, 010-8543, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Li Y, Zheng S, Zhang J, Wang F, Liu X, He W. Advance ultrasound techniques for the assessment of plaque vulnerability in symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid stenosis: a multimodal ultrasound study. Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2021; 11:28-38. [PMID: 33708475 DOI: 10.21037/cdt-20-876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Advanced carotid ultrasound techniques may be useful in characterizing plaque vulnerability, but comprehensive studies are still lacking. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with vulnerable plaques using advanced ultrasound techniques. Methods This is a prospective observational study of patients with >50% internal carotid stenosis (ICA). All patients underwent conventional ultrasound, superb microvascular imaging (SMI) and shear wave elastography (SWE) examinations. Plaque size, echogenicity, stiffness and intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) were assessed and compared between symptomatic and asymptomatic groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of SWE and SMI of the vulnerable plaques. Results The final analysis included 123 patients (78.9% male; mean age, 66±8 years), 65 were enrolled in the symptomatic group, and 58 were enrolled in the asymptomatic group. The mean elasticity was 78.1±25.4 kPa for asymptomatic and 51.5±18.3 kPa for symptomatic plaques. Symptomatic plaques showed higher visual IPN grades on SMI than asymptomatic plaques (P<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that plaque stiffness (PS) (OR 0.95, 95% CI, 0.919-0.974) and IPN level (OR 4.17, 95% CI, 2.008-8.664) were independently associated with symptomatic plaques. The combination of the two factors had a preferable accuracy to discriminate symptomatic plaques (AUC 0.89, 95% CI, 0.827-0.944). Conclusions Advanced carotid ultrasound techniques can identify plaque characteristics that are associated with ischemic events and may be potentially indicative of plaque vulnerability. These factors may ultimately be used in the clinical management of carotid stenosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Zheng
- Department of Ultrasound, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jinghan Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fumin Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyao Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wen He
- Department of Ultrasound, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cerebral superb microvascular imaging in preterm neonates: in vivo evaluation of thalamic, striatal, and extrastriatal angioarchitecture. Neuroradiology 2021; 63:1103-1112. [PMID: 33471157 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-021-02634-w] [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] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the potential of superb microvascular imaging (SMI) in visualizing brain microvessels in preterm neonates of different gestational ages (GA). METHODS In this retrospective, observational pilot study, 15 preterm newborns were equally divided into GA groups: extremely (GA < 28 weeks), very (28-31 weeks), and moderate to late (32-37 weeks) preterm. All patients underwent conventional transcranial ultrasounds during the first day of life following the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine practice guidelines. SMI was then performed; based on their SMI morphology and location, brain microvessels were classified as extrastriatal (cortical and medullary), striatal, or thalamic. Two examiners independently classified vessels as visible or invisible. To assess the association between vessel visibility and GA, binomial logistic regression analysis (separate for each microvessel group) was performed, taking visibility as a dependent variable and both examiners and GA as predictor variables. RESULTS A statistically significant difference among GA groups was found in sex (P = 0.030), birth weight (P = 0.007), and Apgar score within 1 min after birth (P = 0.024). Microvascular visibility increased with GA for superficial vessels (P < 0.05 for both cortical and medullary), while striatal and thalamic vessels were visible in all neonates irrespective of their GA. CONCLUSIONS SMI technology shows promise to assess brain microvasculature in preterm neonates, even potentially providing data on early brain development.
Collapse
|
24
|
Mantella LE, Liblik K, Johri AM. Vascular imaging of atherosclerosis: Strengths and weaknesses. Atherosclerosis 2021; 319:42-50. [PMID: 33476943 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease that can lead to several complications such as ischemic heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Therefore, researchers and clinicians rely heavily on the use of imaging modalities to identify, and more recently, quantify the burden of atherosclerosis in the aorta, carotid arteries, coronary arteries, and peripheral vasculature. These imaging techniques vary in invasiveness, cost, resolution, radiation exposure, and presence of artifacts. Consequently, a detailed understanding of the risks and benefits of each technique is crucial prior to their introduction into routine cardiovascular screening. Additionally, recent research in the field of microvascular imaging has proven to be important in the field of atherosclerosis. Using techniques such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound and superb microvascular imaging, researchers have been able to detect blood vessels within a plaque lesion that may contribute to vulnerability and rupture. This paper will review the strengths and weaknesses of the various imaging techniques used to measure atherosclerotic burden. Furthermore, it will discuss the future of advanced imaging modalities as potential biomarkers for atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Mantella
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, 18 Stuart Street, K7L 3N6, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Kiera Liblik
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's University, 76 Stuart Street, K7L 2V7, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Amer M Johri
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, 18 Stuart Street, K7L 3N6, Kingston, ON, Canada; Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's University, 76 Stuart Street, K7L 2V7, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ishikawa M, Masamoto K, Hachiya R, Kagami H, Inaba M, Naritaka H, Katoh S. Neurosurgical intraoperative ultrasonography using contrast enhanced superb microvascular imaging -vessel density and appearance time of the contrast agent. Br J Neurosurg 2020:1-10. [PMID: 32648779 DOI: 10.1080/02688697.2020.1772958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Ultrasonography (US) provides real-time information on structures within the skull during neurosurgical operations. Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) is the latest imaging technique for detecting very low-velocity flow with minimal motion artifacts, and we have reported on this technique for intraoperative US monitoring. We combined SMI with administration of contrast agent to obtain detailed information during neurosurgical operations.Materials and methods: Twenty patients diagnosed with brain tumor (10 meningiomas, 5 glioblastomas, 2 hemangioblastomas, 1 schwannoma, 1 malignant lymphoma, 1 brain abscess) underwent neurosurgery under US with SMI and contrast agent techniques. Vessel density and appearance time following contrast administration were analyzed.Results: Flow in numerous vessels was not visualized by SMI alone, but appeared following injection of contrast agent in all cases. Flow in tumors was drastically enhanced by contrast agent in schwannoma, hemangioblastoma and meningioma, compared to normal brain tissue. Flows in the dilated and bent vessels of glioblastoma were also enhanced, although flow in hypoechoic lymphoma remained inconspicuous. The characteristics of tumor vessels were clearly visualized and tumor borders were demonstrated by the difference between tumor flow and brain flow, by the increased tumor vessel density and decreased appearance time of contrast agent compared to normal brain vessels.Conclusions: The combination of SMI and contrast agent techniques for intraoperative US monitoring could provide innovative flow images of tumor and normal brain. The neurosurgeon obtains information about tumor flow and tumor borderline before tumor resection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mami Ishikawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tachikawa Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Edogawa Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuto Masamoto
- Faculty of Informatics and Engineering, University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryota Hachiya
- Faculty of Informatics and Engineering, University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kagami
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Yokohamashi Tobu Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Makoto Inaba
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Yokohamashi Tobu Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Heiji Naritaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Edogawa Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shojiro Katoh
- Department of Orthopedics, Edogawa Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Perrotta P, Pintelon I, de Vries MR, Quax PHA, Timmermans JP, De Meyer GRY, Martinet W. Three-Dimensional Imaging of Intraplaque Neovascularization in a Mouse Model of Advanced Atherosclerosis. J Vasc Res 2020; 57:348-354. [PMID: 32610324 DOI: 10.1159/000508449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple lines of evidence suggest that intraplaque (IP) neovascularization promotes atherosclerotic plaque growth, destabilization, and rupture. However, pharmacological inhibition of IP neovascularization remains largely unexplored due to the limited number of animal models that develop IP neovessels and the lack of reliable methods for visualizing IP angiogenesis. Here, we applied 3D confocal microscopy with an optimized tissue-clearing process, immunolabeling-enabled three-dimensional imaging of solvent-cleared organs, to visualize IP neovessels in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice carrying a heterozygous mutation (C1039+/-) in the fibrillin-1 gene. Unlike regular ApoE-/- mice, this mouse model is characterized by the presence of advanced plaques with evident IP neovascularization. Plaques were stained with antibodies against endothelial marker CD31 for 3 days, followed by incubation with fluorescently labeled secondary antibodies. Subsequent tissue clearing with dichloromethane (DCM)/methanol, DCM, and dibenzyl ether allowed easy visualization and 3D reconstruction of the IP vascular network while plaque morphology remained intact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Perrotta
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Isabel Pintelon
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Margreet R de Vries
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H A Quax
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Guido R Y De Meyer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Martinet
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium,
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
There are several vascular ultrasound technologies that are useful in challenging diagnostic situations. New vascular ultrasound applications include directional power Doppler ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, B-flow imaging, microvascular imaging, 3-dimensional vascular ultrasound, intravascular ultrasound, photoacoustic imaging, and vascular elastography. All these techniques are complementary to Doppler ultrasound and provide greater ability to visualize small vessels, have higher sensitivity to detect slow flow, and better assess vascular wall and lumen while overcoming limitations color Doppler. The ultimate goal of these technologies is to make ultrasound competitive with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for vascular imaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lori Mankowski Gettle
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, 600 Highland Avenue, E3/380, Madison, WI 53792, USA.
| | - Margarita V Revzin
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, Yale New Haven Hospital, 330 Cedar Street, TE 2-214, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. https://twitter.com/MargaritaRevzin
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ito S, Tahara N, Hirakata S, Kaieda S, Tahara A, Maeda-Ogata S, Bekki M, Sugiyama Y, Honda A, Igata S, Kuromatsu R, Nakashima O, Fukumoto Y. Signal intensity of superb micro-vascular imaging associates with the activity of vascular inflammation in Takayasu arteritis. J Nucl Cardiol 2020; 27:1063-1065. [PMID: 30834495 DOI: 10.1007/s12350-019-01665-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shinichiro Ito
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
- Ultrasound Diagnostic Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Tahara
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan.
| | - Saki Hirakata
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Shinjiro Kaieda
- Division of Respirology, Neurology, and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Atsuko Tahara
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Shoko Maeda-Ogata
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Munehisa Bekki
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Yoichi Sugiyama
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Akihiro Honda
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Sachiyo Igata
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Ryoko Kuromatsu
- Ultrasound Diagnostic Center, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
| | - Osamu Nakashima
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Kurume University Hospital, Kurume, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Fukumoto
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume, 830-0011, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Schinkel AFL, Bosch JG, Staub D, Adam D, Feinstein SB. Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound to Assess Carotid Intraplaque Neovascularization. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:466-478. [PMID: 31791553 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2019.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is increasingly being used to identify patients with carotid plaques that are vulnerable to rupture, so-called vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques, by assessment of intraplaque neovascularization. A complete overview of the strengths and limitations of carotid CEUS is currently not available. The aim of this systematic review was to provide a complete overview of existing publications on the role of CEUS in assessment of carotid intraplaque neovascularization. The systematic review of the literature yielded 52 studies including a total of 4660 patients (mean age: 66 y, 71% male) who underwent CEUS for the assessment of intraplaque neovascularization. The majority of the patients (76%) were asymptomatic and had no history of transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. The assessment of intraplaque neovascularization was mostly performed using a visual scoring system; several studies used time-intensity curves or dedicated quantification software to optimize analysis. In 17 studies CEUS was performed in patients before carotid surgery (endarterectomy), allowing a comparison of pre-operative CEUS findings with histologic analysis of the tissue sample that is removed from the carotid artery. In a total of 576 patients, the CEUS findings were compared with histopathological analysis of the plaque after surgery. In 16 of the 17 studies, contrast enhancement was found to correlate with the presence and degree of intraplaque neovascularization on histology. Plaques with a larger amount of contrast enhancement had significantly increased density of microvessels in the corresponding region on histology. In conclusion, CEUS is a readily available imaging modality for the assessment of patients with carotid atherosclerosis, providing information on atherosclerotic plaques, such as ulceration and intraplaque neovascularization, which may be clinically relevant. The ultimate clinical goal is the early identification of carotid atherosclerosis to start early preventive therapy and prevent clinical complications such as TIA and stroke.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arend F L Schinkel
- Department of Cardiology, Thoraxcenter, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Johan G Bosch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thoraxcenter, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Staub
- Division of Angiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dan Adam
- Biomedical Engineering, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Steven B Feinstein
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bogiatzi C, Azarpazhooh MR, Spence JD. Choosing the right therapy for a patient with asymptomatic carotid stenosis. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2020; 18:53-63. [PMID: 32043917 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2020.1729127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Most patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis (ACS) now have a lower risk with intensive medical therapy than with stenting (CAS) or endarterectomy (CEA); the annual risk of stroke or death with intensive medical therapy is ~ 0.5%, vs. a periprocedural risk with CAS of ~ 2.5-4.1% with CAS, and ~ 1.4-1.8% with CEA. The excess risk of CAS is greater in older patients.Areas covered: Discussed are the need for intensive medical therapy, the nature of intensive medical therapy, approaches to identifying the few patients with ACS who could benefit from CEA or CAS, and which patients would be better suited to CEA vs. CAS.Expert opinion: All patients with ACS are at high risk of cardiovascular events, soshould receive intensive medical therapy including lifestyle modification, intensive lipid-lowering, B vitamins to lower homocysteine (using methylcobalamin rather than cyanocobalamin), and appropriate antithrombotic therapy. High-risk patients who could benefit from intervention can be identified by clinical and imaging features including transcranial Doppler embolus detection, ulceration, intraplaque hemorrhage, reduced cerebrovascular reserve, plaque echolucency, silent infarction on brain imaging, and progression of stenosis. Most patients whose risk of stroke warrants intervention would be better treated with CEA than with CAS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chrysi Bogiatzi
- Department of Neurology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - M Reza Azarpazhooh
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences (Neurology), Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - J David Spence
- Departments of Clinical Neurological Sciences (Neurology) and Internal Medicine (Clinical Pharmacology), Robarts Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Zamani M, Skagen K, Scott H, Russell D, Skjelland M. Advanced ultrasound methods in assessment of carotid plaque instability: a prospective multimodal study. BMC Neurol 2020; 20:39. [PMID: 31996153 PMCID: PMC6990506 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-020-1620-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A significant proportion of ischemic strokes are caused by emboli from atherosclerotic, unstable carotid artery plaques. The selection of patients for endarterectomy in current clinical practice is primarily based on the degree of carotid artery stenosis and clinical symptoms. However, the content of the plaque is known to be more important for stroke risk. Intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) has recently emerged as a possible surrogate marker for plaque instability. Neo-microvessels from the adventitial vasa vasorum grow into the full thickness of the vessel wall in an adaptive response to hypoxia, causing subsequent intraplaque haemorrhage and plaque rupture. Conventional ultrasound cannot detect IPN. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound and Superb Microvascular Imaging (SMI), have, however, shown promise in IPN assessment. Recent research using Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) has also reported reduced tissue stiffness in the artery wall (reduced mean Young’s modulus) in unstable compared to stable plaques. The purpose of this study is to identify unstable carotid artery plaques at risk of rupture and future ischemic stroke risk using multimodal assessments. Methods Forty five symptomatic and 45 asymptomatic patients > 18 years, with > 50% carotid stenosis referred to Oslo University Hospital ultrasound lab will be included in this on-going project. Patients will undergo contrast enhanced ultrasound, SMI, carotid-MRI and PET-(18F-FDG). Contrast enhanced ultrasound will be analyzed semi-quantitatively (5-levels visual classification) and quantitatively by plotting time-intensity curve analyses to obtain plaque peak contrast enhancement intensity. Plaques removed at carotid endarterectomy will be assessed histologically and the number of microvessels, areas of inflammation, granulation, calcification, lipid and fibrosis will be measured. Discussion This multimodality study will primarily provide information on the clinical value of advanced ultrasound methods (SMI, SWE) for the detection of unstable carotid artery plaque in comparison with other methods including contrast-enhanced ultrasound, carotid-MRI and PET-(18F-FDG) using histology as the gold standard. Secondly, findings from the methods mentioned above will be related to cerebrovascular symptoms, blood tests (leukocytes, CRP, ESR, lipoproteins and inflammatory markers) and cardiovascular risk factors at inclusion and at 1-year follow-up. The overall aim is to optimize detection of plaque instability which can lead to better preventive decisions and reduced stroke rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Zamani
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Postboks 4950 Nydalen 0424, Oslo, Norway. .,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - K Skagen
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Postboks 4950 Nydalen 0424, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - H Scott
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway
| | - D Russell
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Postboks 4950 Nydalen 0424, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - M Skjelland
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Postboks 4950 Nydalen 0424, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhu X, Ding C. Letter by Zhu and Ding Regarding Article, "Carotid Plaque Neovascularization Detected With Superb Microvascular Imaging Ultrasound Without Using Contrast Media". Stroke 2020; 51:e11. [PMID: 31813357 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.119.027872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, P.R. China
| | - Chandong Ding
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Yamada Y, Shiaishi T, Ueno A, Kaneko M, Inoue Y, Fujihara A, Hongo F, Ukimura O. Phase I study of cancer lesion-targeted microwave coagulation therapy for localized prostate cancer: A pilot clinical study protocol. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2019; 16:100471. [PMID: 31701044 PMCID: PMC6831715 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2019.100471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whole-gland therapy for prostate cancer, which might cause more harm than no therapy (observation or active surveillance), might be a overtreatment. In order to avoid overtreatment as well as undertreatment of localize prostate cancer, novel strategy of organ-preserving therapies have been developed to achieve both cancer control and functional preservation. For the therapeutic techniques, microwave ablation would be an option for lesion-targeted focal therapy to eradicate biopsy-proven cancer lesion with its safety margin. Following our recent pilot clinical study of lesion-targeted focal cryotherapy, prospective clinical trial was designed to investigate the safety and therapeutic effects of lesion-targeted microwave therapy for localized prostate cancer. METHODS This is a single-center, phase I, clinical study to evaluate primarily the safety of lesion-targeted focal microwave treatment for prostate cancer. Patients with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-visible, MR-ultrasound image-fusion targeted biopsy-proven clinically significant cancer will be enrolled. The target sample size is 5. Transrectal ultrasound-guided focal microwave ablation will be performed under general anesthesia. The primary endpoint is adverse events after microwave focal therapy. Secondary endpoint includes to assess both cancer control and quality of life (functional preservation). DISCUSSION This single-center, phase I, clinical study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of lesion-targeted focal microwave treatment for prostate cancer. The importance of this clinical trial is that it may establish new treatment for prostate cancer. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was registered with Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs052190026).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Osamu Ukimura
- Department of Urology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wang Y, Yao M, Zou M, Li S, Ge Z, Hong Y, Cai S, Wang H, Li J. Assessment of Carotid Intraplaque Neovascularization Using Superb Microvascular Imaging in High Risk of Stroke Individuals: Results From a Community-Based Study. Front Neurol 2019; 10:1146. [PMID: 31787918 PMCID: PMC6854025 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.01146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Improved stroke risk stratification may improve stroke prevention. We aimed to study the value of a novel Doppler method, superb microvascular imaging (SMI), in correlating plaque thickness and evidence of intra-plaque neovascularization with a history stroke and TIA involving any cerebrovascular territory among community residents considered at high stroke risk. Methods: We selected residents aged at least 40 years from the Donghuashi community in China who had at least three stroke risk factors (including a history of stroke or TIA) and carotid plaque thickness of at least 1.5 mm (but without heavy calcification) and no history of carotid endarterectomy or stenting. In this cross-sectional study, each subject underwent carotid plaque examination with standard ultrasound and SMI. SMI evidence of plaque neovascularization was categorized as none or mild (Grade 1) or moderate or marked (Grade 2) and correlated with past history of stroke or TIA. Results: A total of 131 individuals (mean age 69 ± 8 years, 63% male) met the study inclusion criteria. SMI revealed no or mild neovascularization in 74 subjects (56.5%) and moderate or marked neovascularization in 57 subjects (43.5%). Subjects with moderate or marked neovascularization were more likely to have a history of any territory stroke or TIA, 43.9 vs. 17.6% (P = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed a thicker plaque (odds ratio: 2.272, 95% CI: 1.351–3.822, P = 0.002) and a history of stroke or TIA (odds ratio: 4.017, 95% CI: 1.719–9.387, P = 0.001) significantly correlated with evidence of moderate to marked intra-plaque neovascularization. Conclusions: Moderate to marked intraplaque neovascularization detected by SMI was more likely in subjects with a history of any territory stroke or TIA or thicker plaque. This indicates a potential new role of SMI in stratifying future risk of stroke or other arterial disease complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Yao
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mi Zou
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shengde Li
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhitong Ge
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuehui Hong
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Siman Cai
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianchu Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Jiang ZZ, Huang YH, Shen HL, Liu XT. Clinical Applications of Superb Microvascular Imaging in the Liver, Breast, Thyroid, Skeletal Muscle, and Carotid Plaques. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2019; 38:2811-2820. [PMID: 30953387 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews the clinical applications of Superb Microvascular Imaging (SMI; Canon Medical Systems, Otawara, Japan) in the liver, breast, thyroid, skeletal muscle, and carotid plaques. Diseases that are closely associated with angiogenesis can be diagnosed by SMI in a relatively early phase, and using SMI can prevent adverse reactions associated with the contrast agents used in contrast-enhanced ultrasound. Super Microvascular Imaging also shows particular value in grading disease activities and monitoring therapeutic responses. Although SMI has some limitations, such as a lack of clinical standards, it can add information to conventional ultrasound examinations and may become a noninvasive alternative to invasive diagnostic procedures for many clinical conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Zhen Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, China
| | - Yan-Hua Huang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, China
| | - Hua-Liang Shen
- Department of Ultrasound, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, China
| | - Xia-Tian Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Zamani M, Skagen K, Scott H, Lindberg B, Russell D, Skjelland M. Carotid Plaque Neovascularization Detected With Superb Microvascular Imaging Ultrasound Without Using Contrast Media. Stroke 2019; 50:3121-3127. [PMID: 31510899 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.119.025496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Background and Purpose- A significant proportion of ischemic strokes are caused by emboli from unstable carotid artery plaques with intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) as a key feature of plaque instability. IPN is not detectable with conventional Doppler ultrasound. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can visualize IPN, but its use is limited in clinical practice because it requires an intravenous injection of contrast. Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) without contrast uses an algorithm to remove clutter and motion wall artifacts while preserving low-velocity blood flow signals, enabling visualization of IPN. Our aim was to assess the feasibility of SMI for the detection of IPN. Methods- Thirty-one patients with >50% carotid stenosis were included: 22 patients were symptomatic and 9 asymptomatic. All patients underwent conventional carotid ultrasound, CEUS, SMI, and blood tests. CEUS and SMI findings were compared and correlated to histological plaque assessments after endarterectomy. Results- There was significant positive correlation between an IPN visual 5-level classification of SMI and a semiquantitative analysis of CEUS (P<0.001, r=0.911). Plaques with higher SMI grades had higher numbers of neovessels quantified at histology (P=0.041, r=0.460). Hypoechoic plaques had higher grades of IPN on both CEUS and SMI (P<0.001). Higher visual IPN counts on SMI were associated with (1) increased areas of inflammation (P=0.043, r=0.457), (2) combined rank scores of granulation tissue, inflammation and lipids (P=0.02, r=0.494) at histology, and (3) higher peak-intensity values on quantitative CEUS (P=0.042, r=0.514). Conclusions- SMI ultrasound can detect neovascularization with accuracy comparable to CEUS, suggesting SMI to be a promising noninvasive alternative to CEUS for the assessment of carotid plaque stability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahtab Zamani
- From the Department of Neurology (M.Z., K.S., D.R., M.S.), Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway (M.Z., K.S., H.S., D.R., M.S.)
| | - Karolina Skagen
- From the Department of Neurology (M.Z., K.S., D.R., M.S.), Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway (M.Z., K.S., H.S., D.R., M.S.)
| | - Helge Scott
- Department of Pathology (H.S.), Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway (M.Z., K.S., H.S., D.R., M.S.)
| | - Beate Lindberg
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery (B.L.), Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway
| | - David Russell
- From the Department of Neurology (M.Z., K.S., D.R., M.S.), Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway (M.Z., K.S., H.S., D.R., M.S.)
| | - Mona Skjelland
- From the Department of Neurology (M.Z., K.S., D.R., M.S.), Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway (M.Z., K.S., H.S., D.R., M.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Yang DB, Zhou J, Feng L, Xu R, Wang YC. Value of superb micro-vascular imaging in predicting ischemic stroke in patients with carotid atherosclerotic plaques. World J Clin Cases 2019; 7:839-848. [PMID: 31024955 PMCID: PMC6473120 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v7.i7.839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unstable carotid atherosclerotic plaques are prone to cause ischemic stroke. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is the primary method of assessing plaque stability, but CEUS cannot be a method for screening for unstable plaque. The emergence of superb micro-vascular imaging (SMI) offers the possibility of clinically screening for unstable plaque
AIM To investigate the value of SMI in predicting ischemic stroke in patients with carotid atherosclerotic plaques.
METHODS Patients with carotid atherosclerotic plaques (luminal stenosis of 50%-70%) were enrolled into the present study. All patients received conservative medication. The patient's clinical baseline data, serological data, CEUS and SMI data were analyzed. All patients underwent a 3-year follow-up. The follow-up endpoint was the occurrence of ischemic stroke and patients were divided into stroke group and non-stroke group according to whether the prognosis occurred or not. Subsequently, the difference in clinical data was compared, the correlation of SMI and CEUS was analyzed, and multiple Cox regression and receiver operating characteristic curve were applied to investigate the value of SMI and CEUS in predicting cerebral arterial thrombosis in three years.
RESULTS In this study, 43 patients were enrolled in the stroke group and 82 patients were enrolled in the non-stroke group. Cox regression revealed that SMI level (P = 0.013) and enhancement intensity (P = 0.032) were the independent factors influencing ischemic stroke. There was a positive correlation between SMI level and enhancement intensity (r = 0.737, P = 0.000). The area under curve of SMI level predicting ischemic stroke was 0.878. The best diagnostic point was ≥ level II, and its sensitivity and specificity was 86.05% and 79.27%. The area under curve of enhancement intensity predicting ischemic stroke was 0.890. The best diagnostic point was 9.92 db, and its sensitivity and specificity was 88.37% and 89.02%. As the SMI level gradually increased, the incidence of ischemic stroke increased gradually (X2 = 108.931, P = 0.000).
CONCLUSION SMI can be used as a non-invasive method of screening for unstable plaques and may help prevent ischemic stroke.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- De-Bin Yang
- Department of Ultrasonic Imaging, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Ultrasonic Imaging, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
| | - Lan Feng
- Department of Ultrasonic Imaging, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
| | - Rong Xu
- Department of Ultrasonic Imaging, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
| | - Ying-Chun Wang
- Department of Ultrasonic Imaging, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zhu YC, Jiang XZ, Bai QK, Deng SH, Zhang Y, Zhang ZP, Jiang Q. Evaluating the Efficacy of Atorvastatin on Patients with Carotid Plaque by an Innovative Ultrasonography. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2018; 28:830-837. [PMID: 30563776 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aimed to explore the efficacy of atorvastatin on patients with carotid plaque, applying superb microvascular imaging (SMI), and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for evaluating carotid intraplaque neovascularization. METHODS A total of 82 patients (82 carotid plaques) who were randomized into treatment group and control group underwent conventional ultrasound, CEUS, and SMI examinations. Patients in treatment group received a dose of 20 mg atorvastatin per day for 6 months while those in control group received placebo instead. Lipid parameters were assessed and intraplaque neovascularization were evaluated by CEUS and SMI before and 6 months after atorvastatin treatment. RESULTS No significant differences were found between the 2 groups at the study entry. Patients with atorvastatin treatment received marked improvement in total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL-cholesterol compared with those in control group (P < .001). In treatment group, SMI-detected intraplaque neovascularization reduced from 69.23% to 48.72% while CEUS-detected ones reduced from 76.92% to 69.23%. By contrast, the percentage of intraplaque neovascularization in control group did not change too much either by SMI (65.12%, 67.44%) or CEUS (74.41%, 74.41%). The consistency between CEUS and SMI was above .75 at all assessments (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Atorvastatin treatment works for patients with carotid plaque by reducing LDL-cholesterol and improving plaque regression. Second, the consistency between SMI and CEUS in visualizing intraplaque neovascularization is good. That indicates a high possibility to identify carotid plaque instability by a safer and cheaper ultrasonography without contrast agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Cheng Zhu
- Department of Ultrasound, Pudong New Area People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Zhen Jiang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pudong New Area People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Ke Bai
- Department of Neurology, Pudong New Area People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu-Hao Deng
- Department of Ultrasound, Pudong New Area People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Pudong New Area People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi-Peng Zhang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Pudong New Area People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Quan Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, Pudong New Area People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|