Biomedical
18F-FDG PET-CT Scans in Oncology Patients Treated with Hyaluronic Acid Filler: Not Always a Pitfall
Ilaria Proietti,
Chiara Battilotti,
Francesca Svara,
Ersilia Tolino,
Nicoletta Bernardini,
Nevena Skroza,
Luca Filippi,
Concetta Potenza
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
The use of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers in oncology patients undergoing PET-CT scans is a topic of debate due to potential interference with imaging accuracy. A 54-year-old female, postmelanoma metastasectomy in the parotid region with subsequent facial nerve palsy (FNP), received HA filler injections for facial symmetry and functional restoration. Follow-up PET-CT scans showed no interference or artifacts attributable to HA injection, allowing for accurate imaging results. This case suggests that HA fillers administered in oncology patients may not universally pose challenges or disrupt PET-CT imaging interpretation. Due to the possible false positives induced by fillers, the inclusion of aesthetic treatments in patients’ anamnesis is a crucial step to accurately interpret PET-CT images. Although maintaining high level of caution in interpreting PET-CT results after filler injection is essential, our case emphasizes the safety of this procedure in oncology patients undergoing follow-up PET-CT scans.
Key Questions
What is the primary focus of this case report?
The case report discusses the impact of hyaluronic acid treatments on 18F-FDG PET-CT scans in oncology patients, highlighting potential challenges in interpreting scan results due to increased FDG uptake in areas treated with hyaluronic acid.
Why is this observation significant in oncological imaging?
Recognizing that hyaluronic acid injections can cause increased FDG uptake is crucial for clinicians to avoid misinterpreting PET-CT scans, which could lead to false-positive results and unnecessary interventions in cancer patients.
What recommendations do the authors make for clinical practice?
The authors recommend that clinicians be aware of patients' histories of hyaluronic acid treatments and consider this factor when interpreting PET-CT scans to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient management.
Where can the full article be accessed?
The full article is available in the Case Reports in Oncological Medicine, Volume 2024, Article ID 5559093, and can be accessed online at: Case Reports in Oncological Medicine: Article 5559093
