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Updated: Jun 3, 2026

Whole-body PET/MRI of Pediatric Patients: The Details That Matter
Published on: December 19, 2017
First experiences from Copenhagen with paediatric single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography
Julie Bjerglund Andersen1, Jann Mortensen, Birthe Højlund Bech
1Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark. julie.bjerglund.andersen@rh.regionh.dk
Single photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT)/multislice computed tomographic (MSCT) fusion imaging in children provided additional structural and nuclear medicine information in all cases, enhancing diagnostic certainty.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric diagnostic imaging
- Nuclear medicine and radiology fusion techniques
Background:
- Planar scintigraphy is a common diagnostic tool in pediatric imaging.
- Limitations in anatomical detail and localization can affect diagnostic accuracy.
- Advancements in imaging technology aim to improve diagnostic capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic value of single photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT)/multislice computed tomographic (MSCT) fusion imaging.
- To compare SPECT/MSCT fusion images with traditional planar scintigraphy in pediatric patients.
- To assess the additional information provided by SPECT/MSCT for diagnostic work-up.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 15 pediatric patients (mean age 13 years) underwent SPECT/16-MSCT imaging.
- Various scintigraphic studies were performed, including bone scintigraphy, leukocyte scans, and tumor-specific imaging.
- SPECT and CT components were interpreted by nuclear medicine and radiology specialists, respectively, followed by simultaneous reading.
Main Results:
- SPECT/CT provided additional structural information from the CT component in 14 out of 15 cases.
- Additional nuclear medicine information from the SPECT component was observed in 12 out of 15 cases.
- Specific information for biopsy guidance was obtained in 6 studies.
Conclusions:
- SPECT/CT fusion imaging offers significant added value in pediatric diagnostics.
- The combined imaging modality increases the certainty of the diagnostic work-up in children.
- SPECT/CT is a valuable tool for improving diagnostic accuracy in pediatric nuclear medicine.
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