Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Shear wave elastography of the breast – immunohistopathology and molecular subtype comparisons
This study, published in the March issue of Sonography journal, highlights the role of SWE as a complement to conventional breast ultrasound. By utilising SWE parameters such as Emean, Emax and Eratio, clinicians can gain valuable insights into tumour stiffness, and differentiate between molecular subtypes. Specifically, Emean in both kPa and m/s is effective in distinguishing between these subtypes. The ability of Eratio in both kPa and m/s to reveal differences in IHC factors further enhances the characterisation of malignant subtypes. The correlation between Ki-67 and IHC factors suggests a relationship with known prognostic markers of aggressive breast tumours. The integration of SWE into clinical practice may enhance the diagnostic confidence of sonographers and radiologists, allowing for more accurate pre-operative assessments. Ultimately, these advancements in SWE hold promise for improving treatment strategies in breast cancer management, leading to better patient outcomes.
Shear wave elastography of the breast—Immunohistopathology and molecular subtype comparisons