The role of PET and PET/CT in Managing the care of lymphoma patients

Abstract

The clinical use of PET and PET/CT aids physicians and patients in developing lymphoma prognoses, specifically for Hodgkin disease and aggressive types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. PET and PET/CT are used to initially stage lymphoma, restage disease, and check for remission or recurrence of malignant tissue after treatment. PET/CT is more sensitive and specific than CT alone and has better accuracy concerning lymphoma relapse and remission. In conjunction with other tests, such as blood laboratory work and biopsy, PET and PET/ CT allow the lymphoma to be staged appropriately and treated correctly. Results from PET and PET/CT contribute to the formation of a specialized treatment plan that leads to the best possible care for each individual patient. PET and PET/CT positively affect the management of patients with lymphoma. © 2011 by the Society of Nuclear Medicine, Inc.