The use of 18F-FDG PET ratios in the differential diagnosis of common malignant brain tumors

ObjectiveThis study examined the use of positron emission tomography (PET) ratios to improve the diagnostic ability of 18F-FDG PET/computed tomography (CT) in the differentiation of enhancing brain metastases, central nervous system lymphomas, and gliomas.Materials and methodsSeventy-six patients with malignant brain tumors and available magnetic resonance imaging and PET/CT examinations were included.ResultsAmong standardized uptake value (SUV)-related parameters tested, tumor maximum SUV to ipsilateral cortex maximum SUV ratio (Tmax:WMimax) and maximum SUV (SUVmax) proved to be the two most valuable parameters for differential diagnosis.ConclusionIn addition to SUVmax, Tmax:WMimax also seems to provide helpful information for the differential diagnosis of lymphomas from other malignant brain tumors.