Paragangliomas and Pheochromocytomas: Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Diagnosis and Therapy

PET Clin. 2023 Apr;18(2):233-242. doi: 10.1016/j.cpet.2022.11.006. Epub 2022 Dec 28.

Abstract

Molecular imaging evaluation of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas depends on multiple factors, such as localized versus metastatic disease, the genetic, and biochemical profile of tumors. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging of these tumors outperforms Meta-Iodo-Benzyl-Guanidine (MIBG) scintigraphy in most cases. A few PET radiotracers have been studied in evaluating these patients with somatostatin receptor PET imaging and have shown superior performance compared with other agents in most of these patients. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT imaging is useful in select patients, such as those with succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit B-associated disease. Treatment strategy depends on multiple factors and necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.

Keywords: (18)F-FDA; (18)F-FDG; (18)F-FDOPA; (68)Ga-DOTATATE; Paraganglioma; Pheochromocytoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18
  • Humans
  • Paraganglioma* / diagnosis
  • Paraganglioma* / genetics
  • Paraganglioma* / pathology
  • Pheochromocytoma* / diagnosis
  • Pheochromocytoma* / genetics
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography / methods
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / methods
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods

Substances

  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18