Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in the management of solitary pulmonary nodule: a review.

Abstract

Solitary pulmonary nodules are common radiologic findings and their detection has increased due to the introduction and improvement of diagnostics. Since a nodule can be an expression of early lung cancers, a proper classification and management are required because its treatment might lead to decreased morbidity and mortality. In this regard, prominent guidelines are available although they are characterized sometimes by discordant and misleading evidences. Furthermore, the same results of studies in the literature appear conflicting. Aim of this work is to evaluate the role of imaging through an extensive literature review but focusing on 18-fluorine fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) in order to assess the limits and future perspectives of solitary pulmonary nodule characterization in early detection of lung cancer. Key messages Detection of solitary pulmonary nodules has increased. Management of solitary pulmonary nodules is still debated. Future perspectives of early solitary pulmonary nodule characterization.

• Authors: Duilio Divisi, Mirko Barone, Gino Zaccagna, Roberto Crisci
• Journal: Annals of medicine (Ann Med) Vol. 49 Issue 7 Pg. 626-635 (11 2017) ISSN: 1365-2060 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 28590774 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Fluorodeoxyglucose F18

Topics

• Biopsy
• Early Detection of Cancer (methods, standards)
• Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 (administration & dosage)
• Humans
• Lung (diagnostic imaging, pathology)
• Lung Neoplasms (diagnostic imaging, pathology)
• Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography (methods, standards, trends)
• Practice Guidelines as Topic
• Solitary Pulmonary Nodule (diagnostic imaging, pathology)