Clinical Utility of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (FDG-PET/CT) in Suspected Spondylodiscitis: A Case Report
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.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Infectious Diseases and Tuberculosis
Medical Imaging Techniques and Applications
Spine and Intervertebral Disc Pathology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cureus
- Volume
- 18
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- e103492–e103492
- Publication date
- 12 February 2026
- Language
- EN