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Summary:
A 42 year old female with a history of non small cell lung cancer was referred for a PET scan. Previously the patient was diagnosed by needle biopsy dated 10/28/02. A PET scan was requested for staging the disease. A Neo-tech scan demonstrated abnormal activity in the left apex with extension to the left hilum.
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Imaging Parameters:
12 mCi 18F Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) was injected approximately 1 to 2 hours prior to scanning. Patient must uptake quietly during this time and void prior to imaging. A non diagnostic CT scan was performed for anatomic localization and attenuation correction. The CT was followed by a whole body PET scan.
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Findings:
An increased focus of 18FDG uptake is seen in the apex of the left lung. This activity extends around the edge of the entire left upper lobe and appears to stud the pleura.
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Findings:
Additionally, there are hilar metastases, and at the level of the descending aortic arch, there is a focus of increased radiotracer posteriorly. This would be consistant with neoplasm of left lung, hilar metastases and peri aortic vs. pleural lining metastases.
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Conclusion:
Approximately 20% of patents are considered operable for NSCLCA. Others receive palliative chemotherapy or radiation treatment. FDG PET scans may more accurately diagnose, stage and restage patients with this disease.
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Images courtesy of:
Georgia Cancer Center
Grady Memorial Center for Excellence
Atlanta, GA
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