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Clinical Utility of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (FDG-PET/CT) in Suspected Spondylodiscitis: A Case Report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Nuclear medicine has undergone remarkable advances in recent decades. Among these, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) has become a key imaging modality, enabling metabolic assessment of tissues and precise anatomical correlation, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy. We present the case of a 64-year-old woman with fever, pain, and a deteriorated general condition, initially suspected of having a hip prosthesis infection. FDG-PET/CT imaging played a pivotal role in suggesting the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis. We also discuss the relevance of this modality, its broad range of current clinical applications, and its specific utility in diagnosing and managing spinal infections.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.103492

Authors: David Gutierrez Albenda, Ernesto Balmaceda Araya, Valeria Armani Arce, Akira Osawa Pivovarov, Álvaro Montoya Porras

Institution: Universidad de Costa Rica

Language: English

Topic: Infectious Diseases and Tuberculosis

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7128717266