ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography) Practice Test

What does a "hypoechoic" mass indicate on an ultrasound?

1. A solid tumor that is darker than surrounding tissue

2. A mass that is lighter than surrounding tissue

3. A fluid collection that is more echogenic

4. A mass that is the same echogenicity as surrounding tissue

The correct answer is: A solid tumor that is darker than surrounding tissue

A "hypoechoic" mass on an ultrasound refers to tissue that produces fewer echoes compared to surrounding tissues, resulting in a darker appearance on the ultrasound image. This characteristic often suggests the presence of a solid tumor or lesion that is denser or less filled with fluid than the surrounding tissues. The darker echo pattern signifies that the tissue's composition is different, typically associated with solid masses, which may include tumors or other pathological conditions. In ultrasound imaging, different types of tissues produce varying levels of echoes based on their density and composition. Hypoechoic structures typically indicate that there is a significant difference in echogenicity compared to the adjacent tissues, which can be critical in diagnosing conditions or identifying the nature of a mass. Understanding the echogenic characteristics helps in determining the next steps for evaluation or intervention.