PET-CT assesses feline nasal cancer

While conventional imaging can reveal structural changes, it may not always distinguish between active cancer, scar tissue, treatment-related changes or inflammation. PET-CT combines anatomical and metabolic imaging, allowing veterinarians to determine whether abnormalities exhibit increased metabolic activity, a feature typically associated with malignancy.

For this patient, PET-CT offered the opportunity to assess treatment response following radiation and chemotherapy while also evaluating the entire body for evidence of metastatic spread or other clinically significant disease.

The patient underwent a whole-body PET-CT scan using F18-fluorodeoxyglucose (F18-FDG), a radiotracer that highlights areas of increased glucose metabolism. Imaging was performed approximately 60 minutes following intravenous administration of the tracer.

Physiological uptake was observed in expected tissues, including the brain, salivary glands, heart, abdominal organs and urinary system, confirming appropriate tracer distribution and scan quality.

The most significant finding was the absence of evidence suggesting active recurrent nasal cancer. Although areas of turbinate destruction remained visible within the left nasal cavity, only minimal FDG uptake was identified, and no distinct mass effect was present. These findings were considered most consistent with post-radiation treatment changes rather than active malignancy.

Importantly, PET-CT also demonstrated no evidence of pulmonary metastasis. No pulmonary nodules were identified, and only mild enlargement of sternal lymph nodes with minimal metabolic activity was observed, reducing concerns regarding metastatic spread.

Within the abdomen, PET-CT identified a small liver nodule with low tracer uptake as well as a focal area of increased FDG activity without a corresponding CT abnormality. While these findings were not considered definitive for malignancy, further assessment with ultrasound was recommended to better characterise the hepatic changes.

Additional findings included several small splenic nodules considered most likely benign in nature and consistent with extramedullary haematopoiesis. Mineralisation within the renal pelvis was also identified, indicating nephrolithiasis. PET-CT further demonstrated increased uptake within the left iliopsoas muscle without any associated structural abnormality, suggesting a possible inflammatory process such as myositis.

For referring veterinarians, PET-CT offers an advanced imaging modality that can distinguish active cancer from treatment-related changes, thereby improving confidence in both diagnosis and post-treatment monitoring. For pet owners, it can provide reassurance that treatment has been successful while ensuring any remaining health concerns are appropriately investigated.

We are currently accepting referrals. Pet owners can contact their vet directly and request a referral to Pet Theranostics.