Hyperglycemia and 18F-FDG PET/CT, issues and problem solving: a literature review

Acta Diabetol. 2020 Mar;57(3):253-262. doi: 10.1007/s00592-019-01385-8. Epub 2019 Jul 15.

Abstract

Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is a standard procedure for imaging cancer commonly used in the clinical practice for several diseases, in particular for cancer staging, restaging, treatment monitoring and radiation therapy planning. Despite the availability of many radiotracers, 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-2-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) is the most used. International PET/CT guidelines propose protocols for patients' correct preparation before [18F]FDG injection, in particular with the regard of diabetic patients and therapy management. Hyperglycemic conditions and oral or insulin medication showed advantages and disadvantages on PET/CT scan accuracy: A correct knowledge of effects of these conditions on glucose metabolism assumes a fundamental role on patients management before [18F]FDG PET/CT scan.

Keywords: Hyperglycemia; Insulin; Oral medication; [18F]FDG PET/CT.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 / administration & dosage
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hyperglycemia / etiology*
  • Hyperglycemia / metabolism
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography / adverse effects

Substances

  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18