[18F-FDG-PET/CT in SARS-CoV-2 infection and its sequelae]

B Rodríguez-Alfonso1, S Ruiz Solís2, L Silva-Hernández3

  • 1Servicio de Medicina Nuclear del Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, España.

Insights

This review explores 18F-FDG-PET/CT imaging in COVID-19, covering acute infection, long COVID-19, and post-vaccination metabolic changes, alongside preliminary institutional findings.

Area of Science:

  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Radiology

Background:

  • SARS-CoV-2 infection causes multifactorial damage extending beyond acute lung inflammation.
  • Knowledge gaps exist regarding the role of 18F-FDG-PET/CT in managing COVID-19.
  • Emerging research investigates 18F-FDG-PET/CT in long COVID-19 and post-vaccination metabolic alterations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current literature on 18F-FDG-PET/CT in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • To focus on applications in acute COVID-19, long COVID-19, and post-vaccination states.
  • To present preliminary institutional experience with 18F-FDG-PET/CT in these contexts.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies utilizing 18F-FDG-PET/CT in COVID-19.
  • Analysis of findings related to acute infection, persistent symptoms (long COVID-19), and vaccination.
  • Inclusion of preliminary data from the authors' institution.

Main Results:

  • Limited prior data on 18F-FDG-PET/CT in acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, mainly incidental findings.
  • Growing evidence on 18F-FDG-PET/CT utility in evaluating long COVID-19 sequelae.
  • Initial observations on metabolic changes post-COVID-19 vaccination.

Conclusions:

  • 18F-FDG-PET/CT shows potential in assessing diverse manifestations of COVID-19.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate its role in acute, persistent, and post-vaccination phases.
  • This review synthesizes current knowledge and highlights areas for future investigation.

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