Characteristics and limitations of FDG PET/CT for imaging of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: A comprehensive review of anatomy, metastatic pathways, and image findings

Nicholas A. Plaxton, David C. Brandon, Amanda S. Corey, Chester E. Harrison, A. Tuba Karagulle Kendi, Raghuveer K. Halkar, Bruce J. Barron

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. This image-based article illustrates the anatomic regions of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck and describes the metastatic pathways in and TNM staging for each region. Both the role and limitations of FDG PET/CT in imaging such cancers are discussed, and cases exemplifying these issues are reported. Also included is a discussion of the use of FDG PET/CT to monitor the response of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck to therapy, in addition to a brief comparison of PET/CT with such traditional imaging modalities as CT, MRI, and ultrasound. CONCLUSION. Understanding the characteristics of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, as imaged by FDG PET/CT, is crucial for determining treatment strategy, because it helps to avoid incorrect staging and also provides an accurate assessment of treatment response.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)W519-W531
JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology
Volume205
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2015

Keywords

  • FDG PET/CT
  • Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
  • Metastatic pathways
  • TNM staging
  • Treatment response

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

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