Current Concepts in 68Ga-DOTATATE Imaging of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Interpretation, Biodistribution, Dosimetry, and Molecular Strategies

Abstract

⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT provides information on the location of somatostatin receptor-expressing tumors. Integrating this imaging data effectively in patient care requires the clinical history; the histopathology and biomarker information; and the grade, stage, and prior imaging results. Previous therapies and technical aspects of the study should be considered, given their ability to alter the interpretation of the images. This includes physiologic biodistribution of the radiotracer, as well as conditions that engender false-positive results. This article provides a guide to the performance and interpretation of ⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT and describes its role in the diagnostic algorithm of neuroendocrine neoplasms and its overall utility in their management.

Keywords: 68Ga-DOTATATE; biodistribution; endocrine; neuroendocrine; oncology; peptides.