The Features of F-18 FDG-PET in Treating Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) arising from mesothelial cells lining the pleura, pericardium, peritoneum, and tunica vaginalis testis, is a rare and aggressive neoplasm with delayed or incidental diagnosis, a high recurrence rate, and poor prognosis. Patients exhibit pleural effusion or ascites, which are difficult to diagnose through cytopathology or routine imaging modalities. CT and MRI are difficult for differential diagnosis. F18- fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDGPET) demonstrated diffusely bulky increase in FDG uptake involving the entire lung, interlobular fissures, and mediastinal pleurae, as well as the diaphragm. Transdiaphragmatic extension to the abdomen with diffusely increased and focally intense peritoneal, mesenteric, and omental uptake is demonstrated.