Optimal precision in ultrasound attenuation estimation and application to the detection of Duchenne muscular dystrophy carriers

Abstract

This paper deals with the measurement of the attenuation of ultrasound in muscle and its application to the detection of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) carriers. The precision obtained when measuring the attenuation is an important parameter to be considered. A statistical approach is taken on simulated data and compared to in vivo results. The results allow discussion for the minimum tissue volume needed for the estimation. Variations in muscle attenuation between normals were obtained from studies on 27 volunteers. These attenuation values were compared to those obtained from 19 carriers of DMD. Attenuation appears to be a potential clinical indicator of DMD carriers.