Letter to the Editor on the Article: “Comparison of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound as Diagnostic Options for Unclear Cystic Renal Lesions: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis”

Dear Editor,

In February 2020, Gassert et al. published an original research article in “Ultraschall in der Medizin” comparing the cost-effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the diagnostic workup of unclear cystic renal lesions [1]. They concluded “that CEUS is a cost-effective alternative compared to MRI for the diagnosis of incidental cystic renal lesions” [1]. We would like to follow up on the discussion of the results in light of the findings of another recently published study dealing with this topic [2]. In principle, we are in favor of paying scientific attention to the cost-effectiveness of different radiologic imaging strategies used for the workup of certain entities as such studies have the potential to improve both innovation and affordability of healthcare services.

Publication History

Article published online:
28 May 2021

• References

• 1 Gassert F, Schnitzer M, Kim SH. et al. Comparison of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound as Diagnostic Options for Unclear Cystic Renal Lesions: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis. Ultraschall in Med 2020; DOI: 10.1055/a-1110-7172.
• 2 Spiesecke P, Reinhold T, Wehrenberg Y. et al. Cost-effectiveness analysis of multiple imaging modalities in diagnosis and follow-up of intermediate complex cystic renal lesions. BJU Int 2021; DOI: 10.1111/bju.15353.
• 3 Silverman SG, Pedrosa I, Ellis JH. et al. Bosniak Classification of Cystic Renal Masses, Version 2019: An Update Proposal and Needs Assessment. Radiology 2019; 292: 475-488
• 4 Wang ZJ, Nikolaidis P, Khatri G. et al. ACR Appropriateness Criteria Indeterminate Renal Mass. J Am Coll Radiol 2020; 17: S415-S428