Fundamentals of Oncologic PET/CT

Artifacts on FDG PET/CT

All imaging modalities may be compromised by artifacts which obscure malignancy or mimic malignancy. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) may be compromised by a multitude of artifacts, primarily associated with technical performance of PET/CT scanners and unexpected biodistribution…

Lymph Nodes on FDG PET/CT

18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) has become an important modality in the evaluation of lymph nodes in oncology patients, including the central role FDG PET/CT plays in managing patients with lymphoma and the ability for FDG PET to…

Male Pelvis on FDG PET/CT

The male pelvis on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) is more straightforward than the female pelvis. The testes may demonstrate physiologic FDG avidity. FDG-avid foci within the prostate may represent benign focal prostatitis or prostate cancer. Testes You’re…

Female Pelvis on FDG PET/CT

The female pelvis can be difficult to evaluate on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT). The endometrium and ovaries may demonstrate physiologic FDG avidity. Benign leiomyomata of the myometrium may be FDG avid. In addition, physiologic FDG avidity in…

Peritoneum on FDG PET/CT

The peritoneum is a membranous lining of the abdominal cavity and organs. The parietal peritoneum lines the abdominal cavity, whereas the visceral peritoneum lines the intraperitoneal organs. Between layers of the peritoneum is the peritoneal cavity, a potential space. This…

Gastrointestinal Tract on FDG PET/CT

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract poses challenges for interpretation on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT). The esophagus, stomach, and small and large bowel may all demonstrate physiologic FDG avidity, and physiologic FDG avidity may be even more intense than…

Adrenal Glands on FDG PET/CT

The differential diagnosis for adrenal lesions includes malignant neoplasms, benign neoplasms, and benign nonneoplastic processes. The most common adrenal malignancies by far are metastases. Additional adrenal malignancies include lymphoma, malignant pheochromocytomas, and adrenal cortical carcinomas. The most common benign adrenal…