Role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in Renal Cyst Infection

Abstract

Cyst infection (CI) is a severe complication of cystic renal disorders, notably in autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), and constitutes a diagnostic challenge because of the lack of specific clinical manifestations and limitations of conventional imaging methods. The role of 18fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission computed tomography combined with computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) in renal CI is reviewed. Recent reports suggest that 18F-FDG PET/CT is the best tool for CI detection. This technique has been demonstrated to play a role not only in the identification of CI, but also in the guidance of invasive procedures, in the detection of other infectious or even incidental neoplastic foci, and in monitoring therapy response. This article aims to review the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in renal CI, particularly in the context of ADPKD, compare this technique with conventional radiological and nuclear medicine methods, and discuss future perspectives in the approach to such a diagnostic challenge.