perilesional hypermetabolism
Increased metabolic activity in brain tissue surrounding a tumor, often indicating infiltrative growth or inflammation.
Full Definition
Perilesional hypermetabolism refers to elevated glucose uptake or metabolic activity in brain tissue adjacent to a tumor lesion, typically identified on PET imaging. This finding can indicate several pathological processes including tumor infiltration beyond the contrast-enhancing margin, inflammatory response, or neuronal hyperexcitability. In gliomas, perilesional hypermetabolism may suggest more aggressive tumor biology and can influence surgical planning by identifying areas of probable tumor infiltration that appear normal on conventional MRI. The phenomenon is particularly relevant in distinguishing tumor recurrence from radiation necrosis.
Usage
Usage note: Typically identified on metabolic imaging studies like PET scans.
In Context
- "FDG-PET demonstrated perilesional hypermetabolism suggesting tumor infiltration beyond the enhancing margin." — Nuclear medicine report
- "The extent of perilesional hypermetabolism guided the radiation therapy treatment planning." — Radiation oncology consultation