SPECT/CT in the Treatment of Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

Abstract

Single-photon emission computed tomography with integrated computed tomography (SPECT/CT) systems has been applied in a wide range of clinical circumstances, and differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is one of the most important indications of SPECT/CT imaging. In the treatment of DTC, SPECT/CT images have been reported to have many advantages over conventional planar whole-body scintigraphy based on its precise localization and characterization of abnormal foci of radioactive iodine (RAI) accumulation, influencing the staging, risk stratification, and clinical management as well as reader confidence. On the other hand, SPECT/CT has limitations including additional radiation exposure from the CT component, additional imaging time, and cost-related issues. Each SPECT/CT image acquired at different time points throughout the management of DTC may have a different clinical meaning and significance. This review article addresses the clinical usefulness of RAI SPECT/CT images acquired during the pre-ablation period, post-therapy period, and long-term follow-up period, respectively.

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