Carmen Doumitriou MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Athanasios Papatheodorou MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Dimitrios Tzavoulis MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Savvas Tanteles, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Panagiotis Ellinas MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Nikolaos Batakis PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

1) To review the anatomical distribution of axillary lymph nodes. 2) To apprise the routes of lymphatic spread from breast carcinoma. 3) To appreciate nodal groups that are commonly assessed intraoperatively and therefore localize the suspect nodes that may need biopsy. 4) To present the complex Ultrasound criteria of lymph nodes affected by metastasis. 5) To review the differential diagnosis of nodal pathologies based on the ultrasonography findings

The pre-operative assessment of the axillary lymph nodes is an important procedure in order to assure a correct management of patients with primary breast cancer. Axillary nodal status still remains one of the most important prognostic factors of breast cancer. It is important for the radiologists involved in breast cancer diagnosis to know how to evaluate not only breast lesions but also the axilla. Ultrasound of the axilla is a quick, easy, inexpensive and often problem solving diagnostic method of axilla pathology. The gray scale and color Doppler axilla lymph node findings and diagnostic criteria are described. The application of ultrasound contrast agents is also discussed as well as tips for image optimization and potential pitfalls and artifacts.

Doumitriou, C, Papatheodorou, A, Tzavoulis, D, Tanteles, S, Ellinas, P, Batakis, N, Gray Scale, Color Doppler, and Enhanced Color Doppler Ultrasound Evaluation of the Axillary Lymph Nodes in Patients with Primary Breast Cancer.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4408878.html