Positron emission tomography/computed tomography in melanoma

Radiol Clin North Am. 2013 Sep;51(5):865-79. doi: 10.1016/j.rcl.2013.06.004.

Abstract

Fludeoxyglucose F 18 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has been invaluable in the assessment of melanoma throughout the course of the disease. As with any modality, the studies are incomplete and more information will be gleaned as our experience progresses. Additionally, it is hoped that a newer PET agent in the pipeline will give us even greater success in the identification and subsequent treatment of melanoma. This article aims to examine the utilization of PET/CT in the staging, prognostication, and follow-up of melanoma while providing the physicians who order and interpret these studies practical guidelines and interpretive pitfalls.

Keywords: CT; Cutaneous melanoma; Melanoma; PET.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18
  • Humans
  • Lymphatic Metastasis / diagnostic imaging
  • Lymphatic Metastasis / pathology
  • Melanoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Melanoma / pathology
  • Multimodal Imaging*
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / diagnostic imaging
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / pathology
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18