PET-Computed Tomography and Precision Medicine in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma and Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors.

18F-FDG PET/CT has been described as an accurate tool for initial diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. It differentiates benign from malignant causes; detects local and, especially, distant spread of disease; and is a very good predictor of patient prognosis. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors are rare tumors that originate from the islet cells of the pancreas. Currently, 68Ga-DOTA-labeled somatostatin analogs are considered the best modality for detection of well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors. 18F-FDG PET/CT has a role in patients with poorly differentiated tumors. Recent studies have demonstrated improved survival in patients with metastatic neuroendocrine tumors treated with radiolabeled somatostatin analogs.

Duke Scholars

Author Rathan Markandan Subramaniam Radiology