EUS has several applications in cancer diagnosis and management:
Diagnosis: EUS can help detect small tumors that may not be visible with other imaging methods. It is particularly effective for identifying early-stage cancers. Staging: EUS is crucial in staging cancers by determining the extent of tumor invasion and the involvement of nearby lymph nodes. Accurate staging is essential for planning appropriate treatment strategies. Biopsy: EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) allows for the collection of tissue samples from suspicious areas, aiding in accurate diagnosis and characterization of the cancer. Therapeutic Interventions: EUS can be used to guide therapeutic procedures, such as draining cysts or delivering localized treatments directly to the tumor site.