![Quantification of Atherosclerotic Plaque Activity and Vascular Inflammation using [18-F] Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography FDG-PET/CT](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F3777.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Detection rate of FDG-PET/CT for occult cancer in patients with cryptogenic ischemic stroke
Carmen García-Cabo1,2, Lorena Benavente3,4, Beatriz Del Amor3
1Neurology Department, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Avenida de Roma SN. 33011, Oviedo, Spain. c.garciacabo@gmail.com.
Introduction:
Cryptogenic stroke represents a third of ischemic strokes and has a significant recurrence rate. Occult cancer has been Identified as a causal factor in up to 5-10% of this type of strokes. We propose that a whole body FDG-PET/CT may increase the detection rate of occult cancer diagnosis in patients with cryptogenic stroke.
Patients And Methods:
Observational prospective study including patients with cryptogenic ischemic stroke who underwent an FDG-PET/CT scan. Clinical, radiological (three territory sign) and specific analytical measurements (D-dimer) were also informed.
Results:
A total of 140 patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 71. The PET scan showed abnormalities in 30% of patients with cryptogenic stroke, with a confirmed cancer diagnosis in 18%. Elevated D-dimer levels and a higher OCCULT-5 score were associated with occult cancer.
Conclusions:
Occult cancer was found in 18% of cryptogenic stroke cases in our study, evidenced by whole body FDF-PET/CT scans, which results in significant therapeutic and prognostic implications. Some imaging and analytical determinations seem to have potential for the selection of eligible patients for more advanced examinations.
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