Fat-Containing Hypermetabolic Masses on FDG PET/CT: A Spectrum of Benign and Malignant Conditions

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2016 Nov;207(5):1095-1104. doi: 10.2214/AJR.16.16066. Epub 2016 Aug 4.

Abstract

Objective: This article focuses on identifying the imaging appearances of hypermetabolic fatty masses and masslike lesions on PET/CT and understanding the diagnostic challenges radiologists may face while interpreting findings of these lesions on PET/CT. This article provides an approach to aid in the diagnosis of these lesions and the appropriate management of patients.

Conclusion: Both malignant and benign fat-containing masses and masslike lesions can show hypermetabolic activity on PET/CT. Although the differential diagnosis is broad, clinical history, anatomic location, and knowledge of anatomic variants and imaging features can help radiologists avoid misinterpretation of benign fatty lesions as malignancy.

Keywords: PET/CT; benign; fatty mass; hypermetabolic; malignant.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue / diagnostic imaging*
  • Adipose Tissue / metabolism*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography*