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PET scan results show hypermetabolic activity: What does this mean?
I recently had a PET scan that showed hypermetabolic activity in the Thorax. See below. My oncologist has ordered a biopsy of one of the problem areas. I am 2 yrs clear of colon cancer. What does all this mean? Thank you!
Thorax: Diffuse hypermetabolic mediastinal lymphadenopathy.
The largest hypermetabolic nodes are in a subcarinal and right
paratracheal location. The most intensely hypermetabolic
conglomerate adenopathy in this region is a right paratracheal
conglomerate with maximum SUV value of 3.04. Maximum size 35 x
24 mm. This compares to prior maximum SUV value of 2.15 and size 21 x 12 mm. Diffuse lymphadenopathy elsewhere within the mediastinum has also worsened in relationship to metabolic activity and size. Interval development of extensive pulmonary nodules. Right upper lobe pulmonary nodule shows intense hypermetabolic activity maximum SUV value of 7.22. Size 34 x 32 mm. Extensive/diffuse and multifocal areas of conglomerate
pulmonary nodules are present throughout all lobes of the lung,
new compared to prior.
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@artew, welcome.
Regarding metabolic activity.
"A PET scan (positron emission tomography) works to identify areas of hypermetabolic activity anywhere in the body. A radioactive substance is given to the patient and this attaches to glucose, which is attracted to cells that are hypermetabolic. When the scan is done, these areas "light up." Often, but not always, cancer cells fall into this category of being hypermetabolic. In addition, not everything that is hypermetabolic is cancer."
The scan cannot differentiate between cancer cells or other situations like infection or inflammation that may be causing this activity.
Seeing test results before having a chance to talk to your doctor can be worrisome. Fellow patients here are not equipped to interpret the results of lab or imaging tests. In fact, it is only your doctor who can provide a correct reading since the PET scan is only one piece of the puzzle that will show the whole picture of what is going on.
Have you had other tests besides the PET scan? What symptoms led to your needing investigation? May I ask what stage of colon cancer you had 2 years ago?
The original PET scan was conducted about 2-1/2 years ago following my treatments for stage 3 rectal cancer. The comparisons discussed in the most recent PET are from that scan. The current PET scan was conducted as a result of a CEA blood test result of 3.9; high normal for non-smoker is 2.5. There was another CEA performed about 3 weeks prior to the latest CEA, requested by my GP, that came back as 2.5. I have a biopsy scheduled for later this month to include precision genomics. No other symptoms. This hit me out of the blue.
When are these things ever not out of the blue, right? You were living life and that's a good thing rather than sitting round 2.5 years expecting all different scenarios. It sounds like your GP is on top of things and has reacted swiftly.
When will you be meeting with your GP or cancer team to discuss further?
Art, in the meantime, you might appreciate helping Martin who has recently been diagnosed with rectal cancer and sharing his journey hoping to connect with others here:
- My journey with rectal cancer: What's your experience? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/tumour-position/