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Published on: May 2, 2017
Concomitant Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Large-Vessel Vasculitis Visualized on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Jane Maestri Brittain1, Lars Christian Gormsen2, Eric von Benzon3
1Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine & PET, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. jmbrittain@dadlnet.dk.
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) can occur together and present with vague symptoms. [18F]-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) effectively visualized these conditions and ruled out malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) are related inflammatory conditions.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to non-specific symptoms and overlapping clinical presentations.
- Differentiating these diseases from occult malignancy is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of concomitant PMR and LVV.
- To demonstrate the utility of 18F-FDG PET/CT in diagnosing and evaluating these conditions.
- To showcase the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in excluding malignancy.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a Scandinavian man with suspected PMR and LVV.
- Utilized 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging.
- Correlated imaging findings with clinical presentation.
Main Results:
- 18F-FDG PET/CT visualized characteristic inflammation in joints (PMR) and arteries (LVV).
- The imaging modality confirmed the presence of both PMR and LVV.
- Occult malignancy was successfully ruled out by the same imaging technique.
Conclusions:
- 18F-FDG PET/CT is a valuable tool for diagnosing concurrent PMR and LVV.
- This imaging modality aids in differentiating these rheumatic diseases from malignancy.
- The case highlights the comprehensive diagnostic capability of 18F-FDG PET/CT in complex rheumatic presentations.
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