375A Concord Road, Concord West NSW 2138
Patient was diagnosed and treated for hepatic neuroendocrine tumour 3/25. Had surgery and palladia. Has been doing well but recent CT scan revealed two enlarged hepatic nodes which on aspirate was positive for metastasis of the neuroendocrine tumour.
“PET-CT removed diagnostic uncertainty by demonstrating no evidence of metabolically active recurrent disease.”
Imaging procedure
The patient underwent whole-body PET-CT imaging using the somatostatin receptor-targeting radiotracer Gallium-68 DOTATATE (⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE), administered intravenously at a dose of 107 MBq. Following a 63-minute uptake period, PET acquisition was performed prior to pre- and post-contrast CT imaging.
Physiological tracer distribution was observed within the kidneys and urinary bladder, consistent with normal urinary excretion of the radiopharmaceutical. The combination of functional PET imaging with contrast-enhanced CT provided comprehensive assessment of both somatostatin receptor expression and anatomical abnormalities.
Key findings
PET-CT demonstrated markedly increased DOTATATE uptake within two enlarged hepatic lymph nodes adjacent to the previous surgical site, with a maximum SUV of 39.9, consistent with metastatic neuroendocrine disease. Despite the presence of metastatic lymphadenopathy, there was no evidence of recurrent hepatic masses or intraparenchymal liver metastases, with normal physiological uptake throughout the remaining hepatic parenchyma.
A small focus of mild increased radiotracer uptake was identified adjacent to the previous surgical hemoclips at the level of the duodenal papilla and bile duct. Importantly, no corresponding contrast-enhancing mass was identified on CT, making postoperative inflammatory change the most likely explanation, although very early recurrent disease could not be completely excluded.
Whole-body staging demonstrated no evidence of pulmonary metastatic disease, with no pulmonary nodules or significant intrathoracic lymphadenopathy identified. Mild radiotracer uptake was observed within several lymph nodes throughout the body; however, these remained normal in size and were considered most consistent with reactive lymphoid tissue rather than metastatic spread.
Assessment of additional findings
An unexpected area of intense DOTATATE uptake was identified within the gastric lumen without associated mural thickening or a discrete gastric mass on CT. In humans this is considered a normal finding.
Clinical outcome and value of PET-CT
This case highlights the unique value of ⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE PET-CT for the assessment of neuroendocrine tumours. By combining high-sensitivity molecular imaging with contrast-enhanced CT, PET-CT accurately identified persistent metastatic disease within the hepatic lymph nodes while confidently excluding recurrent hepatic masses and distant metastatic spread.
Equally important, the examination characterised several incidental findings, allowing differentiation between postoperative change, physiological radiotracer distribution and lesions requiring further clinical investigation.
For referring veterinarians, PET-CT is an advanced diagnostic tool that can differentiate active cancer from benign or chronic changes, improving staging accuracy, treatment planning, and long-term patient management. For pet owners, it provides clarity, reassurance, and confidence during complex cancer journeys.
“PET-CT continues to play an increasingly important role in veterinary oncology, providing functional information that complements conventional imaging and improves confidence in the management of complex cancer patients.”
We are currently accepting referrals. Pet owners can contact their vet directly and request a referral to Pet Theranostics.
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We exist to support veterinarians, enabling them to tailor treatment for optimal outcomes. With PET Theranostics, you gain a trusted partner in patient outcomes.
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Our PET-CT scans give the clearest picture of your pet’s condition, helping your vet determine the best path forward.
For Pet OwnersFrequently Asked Questions
What is PET-CT, and how does it work in veterinary medicine?
PET-CT combines metabolic imaging with detailed anatomical imaging to help veterinarians assess how tissues and organs are functioning throughout the body. It can identify whether abnormalities are linked to active cancer, inflammation, or chronic benign disease in a single scan.
What other health conditions were identified during the scan?
The scan identified several non-cancerous conditions, including chronic cystitis, previous pancreatitis, degenerative joint disease, pododermatitis, and intervertebral disc disease. These findings helped explain many of the patient’s ongoing clinical symptoms.
How can PET Theranostics help referring veterinarians?
PET Theranostics provides advanced PET-CT imaging that helps vets distinguish active cancer from inflammation or chronic disease. This improves diagnostic confidence, treatment planning, cancer staging, and long-term patient management.
How can PET Theranostics support pet owners during cancer treatment?
PET Theranostics provides pet owners with greater clarity and reassurance by offering a comprehensive assessment of their pet’s condition. This can help families make more informed decisions during complex cancer journeys.
What radiotracer was used during the PET-CT procedure?
The patient received radiotracer Gallium-68 DOTATATE (⁶⁸Ga-DOTATATE),intravenously before imaging commenced. This tracer highlights areas of increased metabolic activity within the body.
Can PET-CT detect conditions other than cancer?
Yes, PET-CT can also identify inflammatory, neurological, and orthopaedic conditions. In this case, the scan detected degenerative joint disease, spinal abnormalities, and inflammatory changes affecting the paw and lymph nodes.
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Vets
To refer a patient or book a consultation, please call us directly on
02 7238 4190 or use the referral form.
Pet Owners
We are a referral-only clinic. Please speak with your Vet about PET Theranostics.
If you have a general enquiry or seek additional clarification about PET-CT/CT scan email us or call our office during normal opening hours.
375A Concord Road, Concord West NSW 2138
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Saturday/Sunday – Closed
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