Seminars in nuclear medicine
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18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) and FDG-PET/computed tomography (CT) are becoming increasingly important imaging tools in the noninvasive evaluation and monitoring of children with known or suspected malignant diseases. In this review, we discuss the preparation of children undergoing PET studies and review radiation dosimetry and its implications for family and caregivers. We review the normal distribution of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) in children, common variations of the normal distribution, and various artifacts that may arise. ⋯ Moreover, expansion of the regional distribution of the most common PET radiotracer, FDG, and the introduction of mobile PET units have greatly increased access to this powerful diagnostic imaging technology. Here, we review the clinical applications of PET and PET/CT in pediatric oncology. General considerations in patient preparation and radiation dosimetry will be discussed.
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Both positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) contribute significantly to the effective dose from PET/CT imaging. For PET imaging, the effective dose is related to the administered activity and age of patient. ⋯ The CT scan may be acquired at exposure parameters similar to those used for diagnostic CT, but more commonly, the tube current is reduced and a localization CT scan of somewhat less than optimal diagnostic quality is obtained. A very low dose CT scan for attenuation correction may also be considered.