Additive value of three-dimensional power Doppler in differentiation between uterine myomas and localized adenomyomas

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of three-dimensional (3D) power Doppler ultrasonography in differentiating between adenomyosis and uterine leiomyoma. Design This was a cross-sectional study. Setting The study was conducted in Kasr El-Ainy Hospital. Patients and methods This study was conducted on 60 patients between 20 and 60 years of age, who were previously diagnosed on 2D ultrasonography as having adenomyosis and/or leiomyoma. 3D power Doppler ultrasound was performed before surgery (myomectomy or hysterectomy). The examination evaluated vascular location (location), vascular index, flow index, and vascular-flow index. Postoperative histopathological examination was carried out to confirm the diagnosis. Results Patients with uterine leiomyoma had significantly higher vascular index (P=0.005), flow index (P<0.01), and vascular-flow index (P=0.004) levels than did patients with adenomyosis. A significant difference in vascular location was also noted between cases of uterine leiomyoma and adenomyosis (P≤0.001). Conclusion 3D power Doppler ultrasonography could be used to more effectively differentiate between uterine adenomyosis and leiomyoma.