Abstract
Introduction and Objectives: PET-CT is established in the evaluation of patients with early stage NSCLC before surgery. There is little data on the role of PET-CT in patients with more advanced disease due to undergo Oncological treatment.
Method: A retrospective analysis of all referrals for PET-CT from a single MDT over 12 months was performed. All patients for whom the Oncological treatment was radical intent, or high-dose palliative intent were identified. The PET-CT was judged to have a high (change in intent of therapy) or low (no change) impact on patient management.
Results: 71 patients were identified. Unexpected findings on PET-CT were seen in 39 patients. 34 patients changed TNM stage, with 18 upstaged and 16 downstaged. 36 patients received radical intent (20 radical chemoradiotherapy and 16 radical radiotherapy) and 35 had palliative intent treatment or best supportive care. Table 1 shows the impact of PET-CT on patient management. Change from radical to palliative treatment occurred in 20 patients, due to metastatic disease in 15 patients but deterioration in condition in 3 patients.
Effect of PET-CT on patient management
Conclusion: PET-CT in patients considered for Oncological treatment identifies unanticipated abnormalities, may alter TNM stage and impacts treatment intent in 1/3 of patients. Otherwise PET-CT confirms the extent of the disease and facilitates targeting of therapy. PET-CT may offer important clinical information in the context of Oncological treatment.
- © 2014 ERS
