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Assessment of Blood Flow in Solid Tumors Using PET
Laura L.B. Ponto1, Mark T. Madsen, Richard D. Hichwa
1P.E.T. Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, USA
Summary
This study presents a novel positron emission tomography (PET) technique using oxygen-15 water to assess tumor perfusion. This method effectively visualizes cervical cancer perfusion before and during therapy, aiding in response prediction.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiology
- Nuclear Medicine
Background:
- Tumor perfusion is a critical factor influencing treatment response in cervical cancer.
- Accurate assessment of tumor blood flow is essential for predicting therapeutic outcomes.
- Current methods for evaluating tumor perfusion may lack the necessary precision for dynamic monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a quantitative technique for evaluating tumor perfusion.
- To assess changes in tumor perfusion before and during chemo- and radiation therapy for cervical cancer.
- To establish perfusion status as a potential predictor of treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the oxygen-15 water ([(15)O]water) autoradiographic technique combined with positron emission tomography (PET).
- Investigated perfusion in solid cervical tumors in women undergoing radiation therapy.
- Employed parametric imaging derived from a 60-second summed image and arterial blood curve, registered to magnetic resonance (MR) images.
Main Results:
- Both PET and MR imaging effectively visualized cervical tumors and their heterogeneity.
- Mean pre-therapy tumor perfusion was 41.5 +/- 11.9 mL/min/100 g.
- Mean during-therapy tumor perfusion increased to 48.2 +/- 7.2 mL/min/100 g.
Conclusions:
- Positron emission tomography (PET) with the oxygen-15 water technique provides a reliable method for assessing tumor perfusion.
- Tumor perfusion status, evaluated by this PET technique, can serve as a predictor of treatment response potential.
- This technique allows for dynamic evaluation of tumor perfusion before and during therapy, offering valuable clinical insights.