The Role of 18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) in the Diagnosis and Evaluation of Spondylodiscitis
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Spondylodiscitis, characterized by inflammation of the intervertebral disc and adjacent vertebral bodies, presents a diagnostic challenge due to its nonspecific clinical manifestations and variable imaging findings.
This review examines the role of PET-CT with FDG, in the evaluation of spondylodiscitis, focusing on its utility in diagnosis, assessment of disease extent, treatment response monitoring, and prognostication.
FDG PET-CT, by combining metabolic and anatomical imaging modalities, offers superior sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional imaging techniques in detecting infectious foci, distinguishing between infection and post-treatment changes, and identifying occult sources of infection. Additionally, FDG PET-CT facilitates the localization of infection, aiding in targeted biopsy and guiding surgical intervention. Moreover, quantitative PET parameters, such as standardized uptake values (SUVs), hold promise for predicting treatment response and prognosis. Despite its advantages, FDG PET-CT has limitations, including false-positive results in the setting of inflammation and limited availability in resource-constrained settings.
Collaborative efforts between radiologists, nuclear medicine specialists, infectious disease specialists, and spine surgeons are essential to optimize the role of FDG PET-CT in the multidisciplinary management of spondylodiscitis. Further research is warranted to elucidate the cost-effectiveness and clinical impact of FDG PET-CT in this challenging clinical entity.
期刊介绍:
Seminars in Nuclear Medicine is the leading review journal in nuclear medicine. Each issue brings you expert reviews and commentary on a single topic as selected by the Editors. The journal contains extensive coverage of the field of nuclear medicine, including PET, SPECT, and other molecular imaging studies, and related imaging studies. Full-color illustrations are used throughout to highlight important findings. Seminars is included in PubMed/Medline, Thomson/ISI, and other major scientific indexes.