Optimizing SUV Analysis: A Multicenter Study on Preclinical FDG-PET/CT Highlights the Impact of Standardization

Area of Science:

• Preclinical imaging
• Nuclear medicine
• Radiochemistry

Background:

• Standardized methods for defining volumes of interest (VOIs) are lacking in preclinical imaging.
• This variability impacts the reproducibility of data, particularly standard uptake values (SUVmean and SUVmax).
• Translational potential of preclinical imaging is hindered by inconsistent analysis protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess interobserver variability in VOI sizing and SUV measurements using [18F]FDG-PET and PET/CT datasets.
• To evaluate the impact of a standardized analysis protocol on data comparability.
• To determine the effect of observer experience (beginners vs. experts) on variability.

Main Methods:

• 12 observers (4 beginners, 8 experts) analyzed identical preclinical [18F]FDG-PET and PET/CT datasets.
• Initial analysis followed individual default protocols.
• A standardized protocol detailing VOI size and position was introduced, followed by reanalysis.

Main Results:

• Significant interobserver variability in SUVmean and SUVmax was observed without a standardized protocol.
• Coregistration of CT images with PET images offered limited improvement in comparability.
• The standardized protocol significantly reduced interobserver variability and enhanced comparability of SUV values.

Conclusions:

• A standardized protocol for VOI definition improves comparability of SUV measurements in preclinical imaging.
• The protocol was particularly beneficial for less experienced observers, enhancing data reliability.
• Incorporating a VOI template could further improve consistency in preclinical imaging analyses.