Emerging Role of Transcutaneous Ultrasound in the Diagnostic of Lung Cancer
by
, , ,
Corinna Trenker-Burchert
1,*
,
Marius Dohse
1,
Hajo Findeisen
1,
Andreas Schuler
2 and
Christian Görg
3 1
Department of Hematology/Oncology, Marburg University Hospital, Philipps University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
2
Praxis Für Gastroenterologie, DOC-da MVZ GmbH Göppingen, 73033 Göppingen, Germany
3
Interdisciplinary Center of Ultrasound, Department of Gastroenterology, Marburg University Hospital, Philipps University of Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Cancers 2025, 17(23), 3873; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17233873
Submission received: 28 September 2025
/
Revised: 12 November 2025
/
Accepted: 27 November 2025
/
Published: 2 December 2025
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Lung Ultrasound in Cancer Patients)
Simple Summary
Lung cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. Accurate histological confirmation and staging are essential in clinical care. While CT and PET-CT are established standards in the staging process, the potential of ultrasound as a real-time, cost-effective tool may not yet be fully recognized in lung cancer staging. This review discusses how ultrasound, particularly when combined with contrast-enhanced ultrasound, can aid in detecting tumor spread, guide safe biopsies, and reduce the need for more invasive procedures. By highlighting current evidence and future research directions, we aim to show how the implementation of sonography could improve the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies worldwide and continues to be a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Precise staging is crucial for predicting outcomes and directing treatment decisions. Current international guidelines mainly recommend imaging techniques like CT and PET-CT, with limited references to transcutaneous ultrasound, which is only suggested in particular clinical cases. Ultrasound provides real-time imaging, high resolution in near-field structures, and the ability to assess thoracic wall infiltration, supraclavicular and cervical lymph nodes, pleural effusions, and metastatic lesions. Furthermore, ultrasound-guided biopsies can enable quick and safe histological confirmation of accessible lesions. Based on these advantages and a review of current literature, we propose that integrating ultrasound into staging algorithms could improve diagnostic efficiency, decrease invasive procedures, and support prompt treatment planning. We also highlight the need for further research in this area.
