The Role of [18F]FDG PET Imaging for the Assessment of Pulmonary Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis: A Comprehensive Narrative Literature Review

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis (PLC) is a rare, aggressive manifestation of metastatic cancer characterized by lymphatic infiltration of the lungs, typically indicating advanced disease and poor prognosis. Methods: This comprehensive narrative review evaluates the role of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in assessing PLC. Results: Current evidence demonstrates that [18F]FDG PET/CT achieves high diagnostic accuracy, with sensitivity and specificity ranging from 86 to 97% and 84 to 100%, respectively, particularly when employing semiquantitative metrics such as peritumoral standardized uptake value (SUVmax) thresholds (e.g., ≥2.1). PET/CT surpasses high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in distinguishing PLC from mimics like pulmonary sarcoidosis by identifying distinct metabolic patterns: bronchovascular hypermetabolism in PLC versus subpleural nodular uptake in sarcoidosis. Prognostically, metabolic tumor burden (e.g., SUVmax × involved lobes) and novel cPLC classifications (localized to the ipsilateral or contralateral lung) independently predict progression-free survival. However, challenges persist, including non-specific tracer uptake in inflammatory conditions and variability in SUV measurements due to technical factors. Emerging digital PET/CT systems, with enhanced spatial resolution, may improve the detection of focal PLC and reduce false negatives. While [18F]FDG PET/CT is invaluable for whole-body staging, therapeutic monitoring and biopsy guidance, the standardization of protocols and multicenter validation of prognostic models are critical for clinical integration. Future research should explore novel tracers (e.g., PSMA for prostate cancer-related PLC) and machine learning approaches to refine diagnostic and prognostic accuracy. Conclusions: This review underscores the role and the transformative potential of [18F]FDG PET/CT in PLC management while advocating for rigorous standardization to maximize its clinical utility.

Keywords: FDG; PET; PET/CT; PLC; [18F]FDG; fluorodeoxyglucose; lymphangitic carcinomatosis positron emission tomography; pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis.