FDG-PET
Also written as: FDG-PET — Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography
Nuclear imaging technique using glucose analog tracer to assess myocardial viability and metabolic activity.
Full Definition
FDG-PET (Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography) is a nuclear imaging modality that uses the glucose analog 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose to assess myocardial metabolic activity and viability. In cardiology, FDG-PET is primarily used to identify hibernating myocardium - viable but dysfunctional tissue that could benefit from revascularization. The technique requires metabolic preparation with glucose loading or euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp to optimize myocardial glucose uptake. FDG-PET can be combined with perfusion imaging (rest-stress protocol) to differentiate viable from non-viable myocardium in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate FDG-PET; distinguish from perfusion tracers like rubidium-82.
In Context
- "FDG-PET revealed extensive hibernating myocardium in the LAD territory, suggesting potential benefit from revascularization." — Nuclear cardiology report
- "Patient preparation for cardiac FDG-PET requires fasting and glucose loading protocols." — Imaging protocol