In patients we trust: Reliability of self-reported weight and height in nuclear medicine patients

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the reliability of the self-reported weight and height of nuclear medicine patients in view of recommendations for weight-dependent tracer application for imaging and therapy. Methods: In total, 824 patients (334 men and 490 women) were asked to report their weight and height before imaging or therapy and their level of confidence. Subsequently, the weight and height of each patient were measured, and body mass index, body surface area, and lean body mass were calculated. Differences between reported and true values were compared for statistically significant differences. Results: The average patient age was 60 ± 14 y (range, 17-91 y). An over- or underestimation of weight by at least 10% was observed in 2% of patients, and height was overestimated by 1% by the patients. The BMI calculation was affected by incorrect self-reported values. Conclusion: Most self-reported weights and heights of nuclear medicine patients are accurate. However, since over- and underestimation of weight and height lead to incorrect body mass index, body surface area, and lean body mass values, patient weights should be measured at least for patients receiving a weight-adapted therapy or if quantification in PET/CT is needed.