Contrast-enhanced sonography of the spleen.

Abstract

Combined use of low-mechanical-index technologies and non-air-filled contrast media allows real-time sonographic assessment of the spleen. This pictorial essay focuses on several aspects of contrast-enhanced sonography of the spleen, including examination technique, clinical indications, normal findings obtained through all vascular phases, abnormal findings (splenomegaly, infarction, abscess, benign tumors, lymphoma, metastasis, injuries, and accessory spleen), limitations, and pitfalls. Real-time, contrast-enhanced sonography is a novel technique allowing depiction of a wide range of splenic abnormalities.