Objective：To dynamically detect the occurrence regularity of the rabbits’ VX2 tongue carcinoma and cervical lymph node metastases in different periods according to Doppler ultrasound and to evaluate its diagnostic value. Methods：Intact VX2 rabbits’ hepatic tumor tissues were transplanted to the lateral border of tongues of 30 rabbits and the rabbits were divided into 3 groups（n=10） based on the time of receiving ultrasound detection. Ultrasound images of cervical lymph nodes of tongue carcinoma in different peri－ods were observed. Specimens of transplanted carcinomas and cervical lymph nodes in the rabbits were examined pathologically. Then evaluation on the ultrasound diagnostic test was made. Results：Tongue carcinoma was formed at one week after transplantation，but no ultrasonic image for cervical lymph node was observed. Lymph nodes reacted after 3 weeks and ultrasonic image showed that the nodes had high uniformity and normal structure of cortex and medulla. After 5 weeks，lymph nodes with uneven form and disordered structure were metastatic，maximum diameter of which was statistically different from that of reacting lymph nodes（P=0.000）. There were statistical differences among 3 groups in terms of death weight（P=0.005）. Diagnostic sensitivity of Doppler ultrasound was 85% and specificity was 94% while the area under receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.84（P=0.001）. Conclusions：VX2 tongue carcinoma is similar to squamous cell carcinoma of human tongue. Reacting and metastasizing lymph nodes showed their characteristic images by Doppler ultrasound，which is accurate，specific and sensitive in the diagnosis of lymph nodes metastases.
