SDH-related head and neck paragangliomas: Unraveling PET radiomics beyond 18F-FDG.

Abstract

Radiomics revolutionizes medical imaging by providing quantitative analysis that complements traditional qualitative assessments through advanced computational techniques. In this narrative review we have investigated the impact of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) pathogenic variants on the radiomic profile of ¹⁸F-FDG, ¹⁸F-DOPA, and ⁶⁸Ga-DOTA-peptides PET in paragangliomas, focusing on head and neck localizations (HNPGLs). This influence manifests in uptake intensity and textural heterogeneity, revealing a complex radiomic landscape that may reflect specific tumor behaviors and mutation statuses. By combining radiomic analysis with genetic data, we will gain new insights into the relationship between PET imaging features and underlying molecular changes. In the future, we envision an approach integrating macroscopic indices, such as lesion location, size, and SUV, with advanced computer-based algorithms. This comprehensive analysis could facilitate in vivo predictions of SDH pathogenic variants, thereby encouraging genetic testing, and ultimately improving patient outcomes.