Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography (PET-CT) Scan as a Diagnostic Method in Unknown Primary Tumors

PET-CT Scan as a Diagnostic Method in Unknown Primary Tumors

Is PET-CT scan better than PET or CT alone in diagnosing primary tumours in patients with unknown primary tumors? Can information obtained with PET-CT replace other clinical and radiological investigations? Is PET/CT cost-effective?

Patients who fulfill the international definition of unknown primary tumors can be included, except:

• Young men (<55 years) with growing mid-line tumors where a germ cell tumor could be expected will not be included.
• Patients with lymph-node metastases with squamous cell carcinoma in the head and neck region will not be included.
• Women with adenocarcinoma in lymph nodes in the axilla will not be included.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Unknown primary tumors

Exclusion Criteria:

• Young men (<55 years) with growing mid-line tumors where a germ cell tumor could be expected will not be included.
• Patients with lymph-node metastases with squamous cell carcinoma in the head and neck region will not be included
• Women with adenocarcinoma in lymph nodes in the axilla will not be included