The Role of Elastography in Diagnosing Endometrial Pathology

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this review was to provide a summary of literature and research on the use of elastography and its effectiveness in diagnosing endometrial pathology. Materials and Methods: An online database search produced 16 research articles. Inclusion criteria consisted of ultrasound elastography of benign and malignant endometrial pathology. Priority was given to articles focused on endometrial hyperplasia, polyps, and endometrial carcinoma. Results: The difference in stiffness between endometrial carcinoma and benign endometrial pathology, including lesions and hyperplasia, is statistically significant. High rates of sensitivity and specificity are seen in using elastography to determine endometrial carcinoma from a benign endometrial pathology. Conclusion: Elastography can provide valuable information to aid in diagnosing endometrial carcinoma. Currently, the standard of care for diagnosing endometrial pathology is 2D ultrasound imaging with tissue sampling and histology. Elastography imaging of the endometrium offers the opportunity to diagnose endometrial pathology without invasive tissue sampling procedures. While this exciting development offers great potential, there must be universal, consistent approaches and studies of subgroups to be considered the standard of care.