Impact of Fluorodeoxyglucose PET/Computed Tomography on the Management of Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies in the Western world. Most colorectal cancers show fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake, although in mucinous adenocarcinoma uptake may be limited. A literature search was conducted regarding the impact of FDG-PET/computed tomography (CT) on management and outcome in patients with colorectal carcinoma. FDG-PET/CT can have a significant clinical impact on patient management in various stages of the disease. In patients with suspected recurrent disease and patients with liver metastases who might be eligible for surgery FDG-PET/CT can have more benefit than conventional imaging. FDG-PET/CT can be a useful modality to monitor treatment response.