Global Research Trends and Hotspots of Contrast- Enhanced Ultrasound in Tumor Diagnosis: A Bibliometric Analysis (2000–2025)
Abstract
Objective: To systematically evaluate global research trends on contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in tumor diagnosis using bibliometric methods. Methods: Publications from January 2000 to June 2025 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (SCI-EXPANDED). Only English-language articles and reviews were included. A total of 3,493 records were analyzed. VOSviewer 1.6.20 were used for bibliometric and visualization analyses, covering annual output, countries and institutions, authors, journals, keyword co-occurrence, collaboration networks, and co-citation patterns. Results: The number of publications demonstrated steady growth with acceleration after 2018, peaking in 2021 and 2023 (> 350 papers/year). Dietrich Christoph F. was the most productive and influential author, while Chinese scholars (e.g., Dong Yi, Wang Wen-Ping) and institutions such as Sun Yat-sen University and Fudan University emerged as leading contributors. European journals, particularly Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology and European Radiology, showed high academic influence. Keyword analysis revealed liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma, as the dominant research theme, with expanding applications in breast, renal, and prostate tumors. Collaboration networks highlighted strong partnerships between China and Europe, whereas North American participation remained limited. Co-citation analysis indicated that a small number of highly cited studies shaped the intellectual foundation of the field. Conclusion: CEUS research in tumor diagnosis has expanded rapidly, characterized by concentrated leadership, thematic diversification, and strengthening international collaboration. With advances in artificial intelligence, super-resolution imaging, and novel contrast agents, CEUS is expected to evolve from a diagnostic tool into an integrated platform for tumor detection, treatment monitoring, and personalized cancer care.
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