18F-fluciclovine (Axumin) PET/CT detecting occult bone metastasis

Abstract

Background: 18F-fluciclovine (Axumin) positron emission tomography (PET) is a novel agent for detection of biochemical recurrence of the prostate cancer. In this article, we present an interesting case of prostate cancer recurrence with bone metastasis not visualized with conventional CT, but detected with Axumin PET/CT. This case report will help reader to understand shortcomings of conventional modalities (CT/MRI/bone scan) in evaluation of biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer. Case presentation: We report a case of 73-year-old male previously diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of prostate, status post-radiation treatment with excellent response to therapy. He presented with progressively increasing right groin pain and rising PSA level indicating biochemical recurrence. A bony metastasis to right inferior pubic ramus was diagnosed with Axumin PET/CT, not detected with conventional CT. He underwent local radiation treatment with excellent response to therapy. Conclusion: 18F-fluciclovine (Axumin) PET/CT is the most sensitive tool in detection of biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer. CT and MRI may not detect early cases of tumor recurrence which affects disease prognosis and patient management.