To summarize current recommendations for imaging in lymphoma management, emphasizing its critical role in staging, treatment response assessment, and biopsy guidance to improve patient outcomes.
Key Findings:
Most lymphomas are hypermetabolic and best assessed with [18F]FDG-PET/CT (Evidence level: high).
CT is the preferred modality for SLL/CLL and non-FDG-avid indolent NHL (Evidence level: high).
PET/MRI shows non-inferiority to PET/CT but is not yet widely adopted, and its advantages are not officially recognized in guidelines.
Interpretation:
Familiarity with lymphoma subtypes is crucial for selecting appropriate imaging tests and interpreting results effectively, impacting treatment decisions.
Limitations:
Variability in clinical practice may lead to CT being used instead of PET/CT for initial assessments, potentially affecting treatment outcomes.
Guidelines do not officially recommend PET/MRI despite its advantages, which may limit its use in clinical practice.
Conclusion:
Imaging plays a vital role in lymphoma management, and adherence to recommended practices enhances patient outcomes, underscoring the need for consistent application of guidelines.
by Doris Leithner, Emanuele Neri, Melvin D’Anastasi, Heinz-Peter Schlemmer, Michael Winkelmann, Wolfgang G. Kunz, Clemens C. Cyran, Dania Cioni, Evis Sala, Marius E. Mayerhoefer
