18F-FDG-PET/CT

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Oncology
• Radiochemistry

Background:

• [18F]FDG is the pioneering and most utilized radiotracer for human brain Positron Emission Tomography (PET) studies.
• It remains a cornerstone in PET and PET/CT oncologic imaging worldwide.
• Despite limitations in sensitivity for certain low-grade lesions, its clinical impact in brain tumor assessment is significant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the enduring clinical significance and diverse applications of [18F]FDG in brain tumor management.
• To discuss its role in differential diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and the evolving landscape of PET/CT imaging.
• To underscore its value in assessing tumor progression, recurrence, and treatment response.

Main Methods:

• Review of the established applications of [18F]FDG in neuro-oncology.
• Analysis of its utility in differential diagnosis (e.g., distinguishing relapse from necrosis).
• Evaluation of its role in assessing treatment response and tumor dedifferentiation.

Main Results:

• [18F]FDG provides critical prognostic information and aids in treatment decisions for brain tumors.
• It is valuable for differential diagnosis, including identifying tumor relapse versus necrosis and dedifferentiation in low-grade lesions.
• Emerging applications include monitoring treatment response, with ongoing research into optimal timing.

Conclusions:

• [18F]FDG continues to be an indispensable tool in brain tumor management, offering comprehensive functional insights.
• Its integration with CT in PET/CT enhances diagnostic capabilities, particularly for secondary brain lesions.
• This "old" radiotracer is expected to maintain its relevance in the future of neuro-oncology.