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We assessed whether an inexpensive, three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound (US) imaging system could produce clinically useful 3D images, without causing patient discomfort. Five patients were examined. The 3D US system consisted of a transducer holder containing a mechanical motor, and a microcomputer. During data acquisition the transducer was mechanically rotated for 22 seconds, while 200 two-dimensional (2D) US images were collected and formed into a 3D image by the computer. The 3D image was viewed on the computer monitor. The 3D images correlated with the clinical and radiological findings. The new perspectives were helpful in diagnosing eye abnormalities and no patient discomfort occurred. The device was easy to use. It is concluded that, as good-quality 3D and 2D US images were produced quickly, with no patient discomfort, and the device is inexpensive, uncomplicated, and easily attached to existing ultrasound machines, it will probably be useful in clinical practice.

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Fibromyalgia is a syndrome manifested by chronic, diffuse musculoskeletal aching and soreness, palpable muscle tender points, and other symptoms. Standardized clinical diagnostic criteria have recently been developed. Skeletal muscle has been postulated as the end organ in this disease. Biochemical, histologic, electromyographic, and conventional radiographic studies have demonstrated no definitive abnormality. This study sought to establish whether magnetic resonance (MR) imaging could demonstrate any abnormality in these patients. Eighteen patients were entered in the study, 14 of whom were able to complete their examinations. T1-weighted, T2-weighted, gradient-echo, and STIR (short-tau inversion-recovery) sequences were performed in all patients, with selected patients examined with T1-weighted, gadopentetate dimeglumine-enhanced sequences. The trapezius and suboccipital regions were imaged in patients who, clinically, had active fibromyalgia. No abnormalities could be detected. The authors conclude that the conventional MR imaging used in this study was unable to depict any primary skeletal muscle abnormality in fibromyalgia.

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