Optimizing Low-Dose [18F]FDG-PET/CT Scans: Ensuring Quality Amid Radiotracer Availability Challenges - Insights from...

Area of Science:

• Nuclear medicine
• Radiology
• Oncology imaging

Background:

• Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is vital in oncology for staging, treatment response evaluation, and radiotherapy planning.
• 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT is a cornerstone of modern cancer imaging.
• Limited availability of 18F-FDG in resource-constrained hospitals hinders optimal scan acquisition and patient throughput.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine optimal low-dose 18F-FDG PET/CT protocols.
• To maintain high diagnostic image quality despite reduced radiotracer availability.
• To maximize patient throughput during 18F-FDG shortages.

Main Methods:

• Utilized GE's Discovery IQ 5-ring, 16-slice PET/CT system.
• Administered a reduced dose of 18F-FDG (0.05 mCi/kg).
• Increased PET data acquisition time to 3 minutes per bed position.

Main Results:

• Extended acquisition times successfully maintained diagnostic image quality despite reduced 18F-FDG doses.
• Variations in acquisition times showed notable differences in image quality scores.
• The strategy effectively addressed tracer shortages without compromising diagnostic standards.

Conclusions:

• High-sensitivity PET/CT systems can mitigate challenges in cyclotron-dependent centers.
• Reducing injected radiotracer activity, rather than scan time, is a viable strategy during shortages.
• This optimized protocol effectively maintained image quality and patient care standards during 18F-FDG scarcity.