Abstract
Functional imaging using 18 F-FDG-PET provides the clinician with additional information about the tumour response during and / or after induction chemo- / chemo-radiotherapy. Semiquantitative analysis with SUV measurements allows prediction of histopathologic remission with sensitivity and specificity of 65-85 %. In addition, SUV reductions by < 40-60 % in relation to the baseline scan indicate better disease-free and overall survival rates. Successful response prediction has been shown in some tumour entities early during or after the first chemo- / chemo-radiotherapy cycle. This allows an early adaptation of therapeutic strategies including avoidance of invasive procedures or surgical tumour removal. Standardization of the application and performance of PET-scans is of crucial importance with respect to inter-institutional comparisons and diagnostic validity. The optimal time-point of sequential investigations during / after radiotherapy remains unclear and warrants further interventional studies.
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