18F-FDG uptake predicts diagnostic yield of transbronchial biopsy in peripheral lung cancer

Abstract

ObjectivesRecent advances in endobronchial ultrasonography with a guide sheath (EBUS-GS) have enabled better visualization of distal airways, while virtual bronchoscopic navigation (VBN) has been shown useful as a guide to navigate the bronchoscope. However, indications for utilizing VBN and EBUS-GS are not always clear. To clarify indications for a bronchoscopic examination using VBN and EBUS-GS, we evaluated factors that predict the diagnostic yield of a transbronchial biopsy (TBB) procedure for peripheral lung cancer (PLC) lesions. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the charts of 194 patients with 201 PLC lesions (≤3cm mean diameter), and analyzed the association of diagnostic yield of TBB with [18F]-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography and chest computed tomography (CT) findings. ResultsThe diagnostic yield of TBB using VBN and EBUS-GS was 66.7%. High maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), positive bronchus sign, and ground-glass opacity component shown on CT were all significant predictors of diagnostic yield, while multivariate analysis showed only high 18F-FDG uptake (SUVmax ≥2.8) and positive bronchus sign as significant predictors. Diagnostic yield was higher for PLC lesions with high 18F-FDG uptake (SUVmax ≥2.8) and positive bronchus sign (84.6%) than for those with SUVmax <2.8 and negative bronchus sign (33.3%). High 18F-FDG uptake was also correlated with tumor invasiveness. ConclusionsHigh 18F-FDG uptake predicted the diagnostic yield of TBB using VBN and EBUS-GS for PLC lesions. 18F-FDG uptake and bronchus sign may indicate for the accurate application of bronchoscopy with those modalities for diagnosing PLC.