Histological Observation of Islet Hemorrhage Induced by Diagnostic Ultrasound with Contrast Agent in Rat Pancreas
2011

Islet Hemorrhage Induced by Diagnostic Ultrasound in Rat Pancreas

Sample size: 30 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Miller Douglas L., Dou Chunyan, Sorenson Dorothy, Liu Ming

Primary Institution: University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America

Hypothesis

This study aimed to histologically examine and characterize the possible occurrence of capillary hemorrhage in rat pancreas, particularly in islets, induced by contrast-enhanced diagnostic ultrasound (CEDUS).

Conclusion

Diagnostic ultrasound with a contrast agent induced significant islet hemorrhage in rat pancreas.

Supporting Evidence

  • 76.2±11.8% of islets had evidence of hemorrhage in CEDUS pancreata compared to 1.1±2.5% in sham CEDUS.
  • The percentage of islets with hemorrhage decreased with decreasing peak rarefactional pressure amplitude.
  • Blood insulin levels significantly increased after CEDUS treatment compared to sham.

Takeaway

The study found that using special ultrasound with a contrast agent can cause bleeding in the tiny parts of the pancreas that help control blood sugar.

Methodology

The pancreata of anesthetized hairless rats were accessed by laparotomy and scanned with a diagnostic ultrasound probe while infused with a contrast agent, followed by histological examination.

Limitations

The study was conducted in rats, and the results may not directly translate to humans.

Participant Demographics

Hairless rats (CD strain, Charles River, Wilmington, MA, USA) aged 8–10 weeks.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0021617

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