Reflecting on the utility of standardized uptake values on F-FDG PET in nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Background: To rethink the clinical significance of standardized uptake values (SUVs) of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) on F-fluorodeoxyglucose (F-FDG) positron-emission tomography (PET).

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 369 NPC patients who underwent pretreatment F-FDG PET. The predictive value of the SUVmax of the primary tumor (SUVmax-t) and regional lymph nodes (SUVmax-n) was evaluated using probability density functions.

Selectively recommend F-FDG PET/CT for patients with de novo nasopharyngeal carcinoma in endemic areas.

Introduction: To identify the subset of patients with de novo nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) for whom [F] fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and computed tomography (F-FDG PET/CT) should be recommended, and to determine whether PET/CT is a cost-effective decision for precise M staging in endemic areas.

Materials And Methods: Retrospective analysis of data of 4469 patients diagnosed with de novo NPC between January 2014 and December 2019. The detection rate of distant metastasis was compared between different groups.