Nonmalignant Thoracic Disorders: An Appraisal of Fluorodeoxyglucose and Non-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/Computed Tomography Applications

Abstract

PET/computed tomography (CT) with fluorodeoxyglucose and nonfluorodeoxyglucose PET tracers has established itself in the management of malignant disorders. Its role in the assessment of nonmalignant conditions, such as infectious and noninfectious inflammatory diseases and other benign conditions, has emerged independently and alongside its role being evaluated in malignancy and continues to evolve. It is evident that PET/CT has the potential to play a significant role in various nonmalignant disorders of the thorax. This review highlights current developments and areas where PET/CT has a potential to impact the clinical management of nonmalignant thoracic conditions with special focus on nonfluorodeoxyglucose tracers.

Keywords: FDG-PET/CT; Infection; Inflammation; Interstitial lung disease; Nonmalignant thoracic disorders; Pyrexia of unknown origin; Sarcoidosis; Tuberculosis.