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

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.