Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies worldwide and continues to be a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Precise staging is crucial for predicting outcomes and directing treatment decisions. Current international guidelines mainly recommend imaging techniques like CT and PET-CT, with limited references to transcutaneous ultrasound, which is only suggested in particular clinical cases. Ultrasound provides real-time imaging, high resolution in near-field structures, and the ability to assess thoracic wall infiltration, supraclavicular and cervical lymph nodes, pleural effusions, and metastatic lesions. Furthermore, ultrasound-guided biopsies can enable quick and safe histological confirmation of accessible lesions. Based on these advantages and a review of current literature, we propose that integrating ultrasound into staging algorithms could improve diagnostic efficiency, decrease invasive procedures, and support prompt treatment planning. We also highlight the need for further research in this area.
肺癌是全球范围内最常被诊断的恶性肿瘤之一，并持续成为癌症相关死亡的主要原因。精确分期对于预测预后和指导治疗决策至关重要。当前国际指南主要推荐CT和PET-CT等影像学技术，对经皮超声的提及有限，仅在特定临床病例中有所建议。超声能够提供实时成像、近场结构的高分辨率图像，并可评估胸壁浸润、锁骨上及颈部淋巴结、胸腔积液以及转移性病变。此外，超声引导下的活检能够对可及病灶进行快速且安全的组织学确认。基于这些优势及对现有文献的回顾，我们认为将超声整合到分期算法中可以提高诊断效率、减少侵入性操作，并支持及时制定治疗计划。同时，我们强调该领域需要进一步的研究。
Emerging Role of Transcutaneous Ultrasound in the Diagnostic of Lung Cancer
肿瘤(癌症)患者之家