Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine, Vol 19, Issue 12 823-830, Copyright © 2000 by American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine
Role of color Doppler sonography in the assessment of musculoskeletal soft tissue masses
P. Belli, M. Costantini, P. Mirk, G. Maresca, F. Priolo and P. Marano
Istituto di Radiologia, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy.
Fifty-six patients with soft tissue masses of the limbs (36 benign, 20
malignant) prospectively underwent sonography (color Doppler and pulsed
Doppler examinations) to assess the role of Doppler interrogation in
differentiating benign from malignant lesions. Sonography showed 60%
sensitivity, 55% specificity, 71% negative predictive value, 42% positive
predictive value, and 57% accuracy. Color Doppler evaluation showed 85%
sensitivity, 88% specificity, 91% negative predictive value, 80% positive
predictive value, and 87% accuracy. Diastolic and venous velocities and
pulsatility index values were not statistically significant. Mean systolic
velocity was 0.27 m/s in benign lesions and 0.55 m/s in malignant lesions.
By combining sonographic and Doppler data, a correct diagnosis was obtained
in 51 of 56 patients (90% sensitivity, 91% specificity, 85% positive
predictive value, 94% negative predictive value, 91% accuracy). Color
Doppler and pulsed Doppler evaluations represent a useful adjunct to
sonography and should be routinely included in the evaluation of
musculoskeletal soft tissue masses by ultrasonography.
