Is there a place for F18-FDG PET/CT in the diagnosis of primary breast cancer?

Abstract

Purpose: With the improvement of techniques and the update of diagnostic protocols in breast cancer, modern imaging proves to be effective in the diagnosis of this pathology, as well as in its prognosis. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these modern imaging techniques through a systematic assessment of the most recent studies.

Methods: A PUBMED search, using certain key combinations ("breast cancer", "F18 FDG PET-CT", "MRI", "staging", "diagnosis") and some inclusion and exclusion criteria, yielded 24 articles published during 2014-2018.

Results: Using these 24 articles, the various statistical tests showed a significant difference between modern imaging techniques, with respect to prognosis (p<0.05), in close correlation with the immunohistochemical profile of the tumor.

Conclusions: Modern imaging techniques (F18-FDG/PET-CT, F18-FDG/PET-MRI) were validated to formulate a better prognostic value than conventional imaging, presenting a sustainable higher sensitivity and specificity in evidencing the locoregional invasion and the recurrence of this pathology.