Diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the detection of small renal masses: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: The small renal masses (SRMs) were defined that the diameter of renal masses measured by enhanced image was ≤4 cm. The diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for SRMs is apparently variable among previous studies. Hence, this study will evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of CEUS in the identification of benign and malignant SRMs. METHODS: A comprehensive search using the databases of Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, WANGFANG, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure will be carried out to identify studies in which patients with SRMs are assessed by CEUS. Two investigators will independently screen the literature and extract the data. Any discrepancies will be resolved via discussion with the senior author. Study quality will be assessed by the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 tool, and pooled sensitivity and specificity of various CEUS findings for the diagnosis of SRMs will be determined. Summary receiver operating characteristic curve will be used to assess the overall performance of CEUS. RESULTS: This study will evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of CEUS for the diagnosis of SRMs through sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio, and diagnostic odds ratio. CONCLUSION: This study will summarize the most recent evidence that focusing on the diagnosis of CEUS for SRMs. STUDY REGISTRATION: INPLASY202060040.