Advanced Ultrasound in Diagnosis and Therapy ›› 2020, Vol. 4 ›› Issue (3): 155-168.doi: 10.37015/AUDT.2020.200055

• Review Article • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Recent Advances in Microbubble-Augmented Cancer Therapy

Mohamed Tantawi, MDa, Ji-Bin Liu, MDa, John R Eisenbrey, PhDa,*()   

  1. a Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
  • Received:2020-06-30 Online:2020-09-30 Published:2020-08-21
  • Contact: John R Eisenbrey, PhD, E-mail:john.eisenbrey@jefferson.edu

Abstract:

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) applications in cancer management have expanded over the past two decades. Through detection of vascularization and perfusion changes, CEUS provides a potentially reliable means of early prediction of response to different cancer therapies including systemic chemotherapy and locoregional therapies. Ultrasound-induced cavitation of contrast agents has a range of effects on the surrounding microenvironment. These effects can be manipulated to sensitize the tumors to radio- and chemotherapy, as well as achieve targeted delivery through drug-loaded contrast agents. Newer forms of drug carriers are being developed with improved drug-carrying capacity and tissue penetration. This review aims at providing a synopsis of the latest developments in CEUS’ use in oncologic therapy. While the majority of work described in this review is still in the pre-clinical phases, results have been encouraging and show potential translational benefit for cancer patients in the near future.

Key words: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound; Microbubble cavitation; Microbubble-augmented; Radiation enhancement; Ultrasound-stimulated microbubbles