What it means
Doppler ultrasound detects moving blood and paints it in color over the gray picture. Vascularity describes how much blood flow a structure has and where. Avascular means no flow is seen. Internal vascularity means flow inside the structure, and peripheral vascularity means flow around its edge. Hypervascular means more flow than expected, as in inflamed tissue or some growths.
When it matters
No flow inside a lump often supports a cyst or other fluid, though very slow flow can be missed. Flow inside a lump shows it is living tissue, which may be benign or not, so its shape and edges also matter. Increased flow can also mean inflammation. Unclear findings may get a follow-up ultrasound, an MRI or a biopsy.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Was blood flow seen inside the lump, or only around its edge?
- Does the pattern of flow make a harmless cause more likely?
- Does this finding need a follow-up ultrasound or another test?
