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FDG PET/CT Oncology Imaging

Nuclear medicine and CT hybrid imaging that shows the metabolic activity of cancer cells.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is FDG PET/CT Oncology Imaging?

FDG PET/CT is the combination of positron emission tomography evaluating metabolic activity throughout the body after injection of the radioactively labeled glucose analogue 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), with computed tomography providing anatomical information.

Cancer cells consume 3-8 times more glucose than normal cells (Warburg effect). This metabolic difference is detected as FDG uptake and quantitatively measured with the SUVmax value.

It is the standard imaging method for staging, treatment response evaluation (Deauville/Lugano criteria) and recurrence detection in lymphoma, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer, and melanoma.

Symptoms

Staging in newly diagnosed cancer
Treatment response evaluation after chemotherapy/radiotherapy
Investigation of suspected cancer recurrence
Searching for the focus in metastases of unknown primary
Lymphoma staging and treatment response

Risk Factors

Uncontrolled diabetes (high blood glucose reduces FDG uptake)
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Radiation exposure
Active infection (false positive result)
Intense exercise (muscle uptake artifact)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When the oncologist requests staging or treatment response evaluation
  • When there is unexplained elevation in tumor markers
  • When recurrence is suspected in a patient in remission
  • In metastatic disease with unknown primary

Treatment Methods

01
6 hours of fasting (target blood glucose <200 mg/dL)
02
370-555 MBq FDG IV injection
03
Whole-body scanning after 60 minutes of rest
04
Calculation of SUVmax and metabolic tumor volume
05
Interim PET (after 2nd cycle) for treatment response

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.