The role of PET-CT fusion in head and neck cancer

Oncology (Williston Park). 2005 Feb;19(2):241-6; dicussion 246, 249-50, 253.

Abstract

The fusion of 18-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron-emission tomography (PET) with computed tomography (CT) offers both anatomic and physiologic delineation of head and neck cancers. PET-CT is useful in the staging of head and neck carcinomas and may identify unsuspected distant metastasis that may alter treatment. PET-CT may also help in target volume delineation during radiotherapy (RT) treatment planning. Better characterization of the target may improve local control as well as spare normal tissues from RT sequelae.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Staging / methods
  • Patient Care Planning
  • Positron-Emission Tomography*
  • Radiation Injuries / prevention & control
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*

Substances

  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18