Tumor localization and biochemical response to cure in tumor-induced osteomalacia

William H Chong1, Panagiota Andreopoulou, Clara C Chen

  • 1Skeletal Clinical Studies Unit, Craniofacial and Skeletal Disease Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.

Insights

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) diagnosis is improved by a systematic imaging approach. Octreotide single-photon emission computed tomography (octreo-SPECT) showed higher sensitivity and specificity for locating fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23)-secreting tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome.
  • It results from fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23)-secreting tumors, which are often challenging to localize.
  • Previous localization attempts at outside institutions frequently fail.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate a systematic approach for localizing FGF23-secreting tumors in TIO patients.
  • To assess postoperative biochemical changes following tumor resection.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic imaging protocol including octreotide single-photon emission computed tomography/CT (octreo-SPECT/CT) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT (FDG-PET/CT).
  • Anatomic imaging (CT, MRI) and selective venous sampling (VS) were employed.
  • Biochemical markers including serum phosphorus, intact FGF23 (iFGF23), C-terminal FGF23 (cFGF23), and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D) were monitored.

Main Results:

  • Tumors were localized in 64.5% of subjects using the systematic approach.
  • Octreo-SPECT demonstrated higher sensitivity (95%) and specificity (64%) compared to FDG-PET/CT (88% sensitivity, 36% specificity).
  • Postoperatively, serum phosphorus normalized within 1-5 days, iFGF23 decreased rapidly, while cFGF23 and 1,25D remained elevated, suggesting complex FGF23 processing and vitamin D regulation.

Conclusions:

  • A systematic imaging strategy, particularly with octreo-SPECT, is effective for localizing elusive FGF23-secreting tumors in TIO.
  • FDG-PET/CT can be complementary, and VS aids in localizing multiple lesions or in high-surgical-risk patients.
  • Postoperative biochemical profiles indicate sustained FGF23 processing and 1,25D generation, warranting further investigation.