[PET-based measurements in oncology: PET/CT and PET/MRI applications]

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiology
• Oncology

Background:

• The clinical use of 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) has been established for over 20 years.
• 18F-FDG PET/CT has significantly advanced oncological diagnostics and management, leading to widespread clinical acceptance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution and clinical impact of 18F-FDG PET/CT in oncology.
• To highlight the potential and current status of PET/Magnetic Resonance Imaging (PET/MRI) as an advanced hybrid imaging modality.
• To discuss the need for standardized protocols to facilitate the clinical integration and research application of PET/MRI.

Main Methods:

• Review of established clinical applications and technological advancements in PET/CT and PET/MRI.
• Discussion of the development and recommendations for PET/MRI protocols.
• Analysis of the potential benefits of integrating PET and MRI technologies.

Main Results:

• 18F-FDG PET/CT has become a cornerstone in oncological imaging, demonstrating broad clinical utility and rapid adoption.
• PET/MRI, available since 2011, provides complementary anatomical and functional information, offering enhanced diagnostic capabilities.
• Standardization efforts are underway to harmonize PET/MRI protocols for clinical and research settings.

Conclusions:

• 18F-FDG PET/CT has transformed oncological care over the last two decades.
• PET/MRI represents the next generation of hybrid imaging, promising significant advancements in cancer diagnosis and management.
• With clear indications and standardized protocols, PET/MRI is poised to become a routine clinical tool.