ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews some of the technical aspects of dual positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) image acquisition, the role of combined PET-CT in the imaging of lung cancer, and some important pitfalls associated with dual PET-CT imaging. The variations in the PET-CT hardware is primarily based on the relative level of performance of the PET and CT components, extent of hardware integration, and the level of software integration. However, there are ways that combined PET-CT can improve the accuracy of primary tumor evaluation. The improved delineation of primary tumor from postobstructive atelectasis by dual PET-CT allows for more accurate tumor measurement. Dual PET-CT imaging demonstrates intense nodular uptake within the postpneumonectomy space, suggesting disease recurrence rather than just postsurgical changes. PET-CT can determine changes in tumor metabolism and may be a valuable addition to CT and MRI alone in the monitoring of therapy in patients with lung cancer.
