18F-FDG PET/CT in suspected recurrences of epithelial malignant pleural mesothelioma in asbestos-fibers-exposed patients (comparison to standard diagnostic follow-up)

This retrospective study evaluated the role of 18-fluorine-labeled 2-deoxy-2-fluoro-d-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) in patients with previous occupational or environmental exposure to asbestos, with histopathological diagnosis of epithelial malignant pleural mesothelioma and suspected recurrences, comparing the data from 18F-FDG PET/CT and computed tomography with contrast enhancement (CECT). 18F-FDG PET/CT has greater sensitivity than CECT in identifying local extent, lymph nodes, and metastasis. 18F-FDG PET/CT whole-body explorations are useful to monitor the follow-up and evaluate the metabolic response to chemo- and radiotherapy, modifying the scheduled treatment plan.