Whole-Body Imaging in Oncology: Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT)

摘要: Publisher Summary Positron emission tomography (PET) was developed mainly as a research tool focused on neurology, but PET devices have become available routine basis and established in diagnostic procedures of multiple oncological diseases. Presently, large number positron-emitting radiotracers are that suitable for imaging. However, only small fraction frequently used oncology. [11C]Choline, precursor the biosynthesis phosphatidylcholine, is staging prostate cancer. [11C]Methionin allows more unspecific visualization protein synthesis well metabolic marker brain tumors. The most common radiotracer fluorine-18-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG), which unspecifically images quantifies glucose turnover. Several studies compared accuracy anatomic imaging (CT, MRI) FDG-PET, showing significant differences with respect to sensitivity specificity, especially non-small lung cancer, lymphoma, thyroid sarcoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, melanoma, mesothelioma, colorectal carcinoma, head neck others. basic idea PET/CT overcome lack or uncertainty morphologic information. CT need be acquired quality at least identification structures. This requirement stressed by fact examinations often one last modalities clinical routine. Integrated has been shown accurate than many malignancies. benefits anatomic-metabolic using can fully exploited if optimized acquisition protocols implemented.