Utility of positron emission tomography in pediatric oncology

Abstract

FDG PET is a technique that evaluates glucose cell metabolism. Its main utility is in oncology. PET scan is useful distinguishing benign from malignant neoplasms, selecting the site for biopsy, malignancy staging, response to therapy and distinguishing scar from residual neoplasm in children who complete therapy. Indications for PET in children are lymphoma, central nervous system tumors, soft tissue sarcoma, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, neuroblastoma and nephroblastoma. Other less common tumors are: plexiform neurofibroma, hepatoblastoma, Wilms tumor and thyroid cancer. There are few reports in children due to less cases reported and low cancer incidence. It is important to consider normal FDG distribution and children variations to optimize interpretation. The main goal of this article is to review FDG PET indications, as well as present our initial casuistry in pediatric population.