Ultrasonic scatterer-property images of the eye and prostate

The authors have developed tissue assay procedures employing ultrasonic spectrum analysis of radiofrequency echo signals. They have derived a statistical framework for applying these methods and a theoretical framework that relates measured spectral parameters to physical scatterer properties. The authors have employed their results to generate cross-sectional images that depict estimates of local scatterer properties related to the effective sizes, concentrations, and relative acoustic impedances of sub-resolution tissue constituents. These images are being investigated clinically to detect and localize prostate cancer. Scatter-property images obtained with very high frequency ultrasound are being used for evaluating anterior structures of the eye in order to diagnose ocular diseases, including glaucoma, and to monitor their responses to therapy.