1) Recognize and address common benign findings on FDG-PET / CT scans that can simulate malignancy. 2) Understand technical factors that can influence interpretation and quantification of FDG-PET studies.
Diagnostic accuracy of FDG-PET/CT scans can be degraded by potential technical artifacts during imaging acquisition as well as interpretive pitfalls encountered when evaluating regions of tracer accumulation. Technical artifacts occur relatively frequently due to the complexity of the PET and CT image acquisition and reconstruction; examples of important artifacts will be presented, along with potential solutions. Thoughtful design of PET/CT imaging protocols and attention to detail during image acquisition can reduce the incidence of artifacts. In addition, interpretive pitfalls due to false positive and false negative FDG accumulation is a major source of angst in interpreting oncologic PET/CT studies. Examples of common interpretive pitfalls will be presented along with approaches to distinguish malignant from benign FDG accumulation.
Wong, T,
Artifacts/Pitfalls/Incidentals. Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL.
http://archive.rsna.org/2014/13010428.html
