18F-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography for Assessing Tumor Response to Immunotherapy in Solid Tumors: Melanoma and Beyond

PET Clin. 2020 Jan;15(1):11-22. doi: 10.1016/j.cpet.2019.08.007.

Abstract

The complexity of the immune response and diversity of targets challenges conventional conceptual frameworks used in selecting and monitoring treatment with immune check-point inhibitors. The limitations of anatomic imaging in assessing response have been recognized. Varying patterns of response have been recognized. These patterns have different implications for the continuation and duration of therapy. Evidence supporting the role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography as a prognostic biomarker and in characterizing response is presented. An added benefit of this approach is the ability to detect immune-related inflammatory reactions, often in advance of severe or life-threatening clinical manifestations.

Keywords: Biomarkers; FDG; Immunotherapy; Melanoma; Non-small cell lung cancer; PET/CT; Therapeutic monitoring.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Melanoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Melanoma / therapy
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography / methods
  • Radiopharmaceuticals*
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Skin Neoplasms / therapy
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18