Shear Wave Elastography: A Potential Biomarker of Spinal-Bulbar & Muscular Atrophy (SBMA)

In this pilot study, we set out to explore how ultrasound technology could possibly serve as a way to help develop therapies for Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA), a dehabilitating neuromuscular disorder. We did this by exploring the untapped potential of Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) as a novel biomarker. Our findings offer a fresh perspective into the challenge of developing a reliable, sensitive marker for SBMA.

This presentation will captivate attendees with unique insights, showcasing challenges and possibilities of SWE as a diagnostic tool. We will explore the confounding factors that affected our results, emphasizing the need for larger sample sizes and further exploration. As a critical stepping stone in the search for SBMA biomarkers, our work opens up exciting avenues for the expanding role of Shear Wave Elastography in the clinical assessment of musculoskeletal disorders.