Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound and computed tomography in the staging of Hodgkin's disease. Verification by laparotomy in 100 cases

Abstract

These results indicate that ultrasound and computed tomography each have their weaknesses and strengths and therefore should be combined, if possible. Ultrasound is the fastest and least invasive method and has particular accuracy for detecting splenic involvement, whereas computed tomography is more accurate in detecting involvement of paraaortic or iliac lymph node. If cost is important in the staging of Hodgkin's disease and if computed tomography is considered the standard, patients whose results are negative by computed tomography should be examined by ultrasound, focusing on splenic texture and size. Even in the era of combined modality treatment, surgical staging may be necessary to detect occult abdominal disease in a certain number of cases.