This study investigates PET-CT imaging patterns and metabolic parameters in elderly patients (≥60 years) diagnosed with lymphoma, aiming to enhance diagnostic accuracy and prognosis using 18F-FDG PET/CT scans.

This cross-sectional study involves both retrospective and prospective data collection from elderly lymphoma patients (aged 60 years or older) at the Nuclear Medicine Unit, South Egypt Cancer Institute. It evaluates the PET-CT imaging findings alongside metabolic parameters such as Standardized Uptake Value (SUV), Metabolic Tumor Volume (MTV), and Total Lesion Glycolysis (TLG). The study addresses diagnostic challenges in elderly patients due to atypical presentations and comorbidities and fills the gap of scarce local data in Egypt. Imaging analysis includes visual and semiquantitative assessment of lymphatic and extranodal lesions post-injection of 18F-FDG, assessing tumor metabolic activity to provide prognostic insights. Data analysis uses SPSS with relevant statistical tests to validate findings.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Age ≥ 60 years

Histopathological diagnosis of lymphoma

Exclusion Criteria:

- Presence of other concurrent active malignancies

Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus with blood glucose > 200 mg/dL at the time of PET/CT scan

The participants include elderly patients (≥60 years) with confirmed lymphoma diagnosis through histopathological examination. Excluded are individuals with other active cancers or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (blood glucose > 200 mg/dL), which could interfere with PET scan accuracy. Patients must have fasting blood glucose < 200 mg/dL before 18F-FDG injection and are prepared per standardized protocols. The sample size is calculated to be approximately 63 patients, providing adequate statistical power based on confidence limits and previous positive PET findings in elderly lymphoma cohorts.