Intense FDG Pulmonary Microfocus on PET without CT Abnormality
Author Information
Author(s): Fathinul Fikri AS, Lau WFE
Primary Institution: Department of Biomedical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Malaysia
Hypothesis
An intense 18F-FDG focus in the lungs without corresponding CT lesions may indicate an iatrogenic FDG microembolus.
Conclusion
The study highlights that an intense 18F-FDG-PET pulmonary abnormality without detectable lesions on CT is likely an artefact from FDG microembolus.
Supporting Evidence
- An intense 18F-FDG focus was observed in the left lower lobe without a corresponding CT lesion.
- The abnormality resolved completely on follow-up imaging seven months later.
- FDG microembolus is suggested as the cause of the observed PET abnormality.
Takeaway
Sometimes, a scan can show something that looks like a problem, but it might just be a mistake from the injection. This study shows that in one case, the problem went away on its own.
Methodology
Case report of a 61-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer who underwent PET/CT imaging.
Potential Biases
Potential for misinterpretation of PET/CT results due to artefacts.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
61-year-old female with a history of breast carcinoma.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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