[An application of Color Doppler ultrasonography in evaluate of brachytherapy in patients with uveal melanomas].

UNLABELLED: Uveal melanomas, even those of big size, are recently more readily treated conservatively, with radiotherapy, though the efficiency of this treatment has not been yet established.

PURPOSE: Of the study was the assessment of the usefulness of Color Doppler (CD) or Power Doppler (PD) examination in monitoring the effectiveness of brachytherapy in the management of melanomas.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Examination was performed in 15 patients, who were treated because of medium size or large uveal melanomas, with plaque radiation (brachytherapy). CD/PD examination of blood flow within the tumor, with the use of SonoVue contrast agent in several cases, was performed before institution of the therapy and two times after the treatment, as follow-up.

RESULTS

Regression of the tumor and gradual atrophy of its neovascularisation was observed in all the examined patients. The enhancement of Color Doppler imaging with contrast agent helps in making decision to further therapeutic options as complex situation.

CONCLUSIONS

Color and Power Doppler ultrasonography is a helpful method in monitoring the effectiveness of brachytherapy in patients with uveal melanomas.