| Theme | Update of PET Diagnosis for Cancer of Digestive Organs | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Value of PET Systems in Diagnosis of Metastatic Lymph Nodes in Relation to Gastrointestinal Cancer | |
| Publish Date | 2009/03 | |
| Author | Seigo Yukisawa | Department of Gastroenterology, Cancer Institute Hospital |
| Author | Masamichi Koyama | Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Cancer Institute Hospital |
| Author | Atsushi Kohno | Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Cancer Institute Hospital |
| [ Summary ] | Morphologic imaging systems, such as CTs or MRIs, have limitations for evaluating lymph node metastases. FDG-PET systems provide an alternative diagnostic approach, reflecting the higher metabolic rates of neoplastic cells. They can reveal lesions through high contrast images as compared to other imaging modalities. Obviously, combined structural and metabolic information enhances our diagnostic ability in relation to lesion characterization. FDG-PET is useful for evaluating various gastrointestinal tumors, and its role as a diagnostic modality is expected to provide additional information on structural findings. Consequently, we should perform FDG-PET scans with the intention of obtaining improved information to make diagnostic decisions. Other non-morphologic imaging systems, such as diffusion MRIs, sentinel lymph node navigation, and lymph-specific contrast MRIs, will also provide useful diagnostic information. |
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