Abstract:Objective To analyze the correlation between quantitative parameters of contrast-enhanced ultrasound(CEUS) and expression levels of CD34 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in rabbit liver VX2 tumors, and to explore the relationship between the basis of tumor angiogenesis and quantitative parameters of CEUS.Methods Twenty-four rabbits with VX2 liver tumors were successfully established by ultrasound-guided percutaneous puncture and implantation.The progression of liver tumors was dynamically observed by CEUS technique. The quantitative parameters of liver tumors were measured. Tumor specimens were prepared and analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The positive expression levels of CD34 and VEGF were determined. The quantitative indexes of contrast-enhanced ultrasound, microvessel density and vascular endotheliogenesis were determined. Long factor correlation analysis.Results Comparison of contrast agent intensity (P < 0.05), ascending branch slope(AS) between tumor tissue and surrounding normal liver tissye (P < 0.05), peak time (TTP) (P < 0.05), area under curve (AUC) (P < 0.05) showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). The intensity of contrast agent strength, AS, and AUC were significantly higher than those of surrounding normal liver tissue. Peak reaching time TTP was negatively correlated with CD34 (P < 0.05) and VEGF (P < 0.05). Contrast agent strength was positively correlated with CD34 and VEGF (P < 0.05). The AS was positively correlated with CD34and VEGF (P < 0.05). AUC under the curve was positively correlated with CD34 and VEGF (P <0.05).Conclusion Quantitative analysis of perfusion parameters by contrast-enhanced ultrasound can objectively reflect the angiogenesis and intratumoral perfusion characteristics of hepatic tumors,and provide a reference for imaging evaluation of angiogenesis, prognosis and recurrence of hepatic tumors.