18 F-FDG PET/CT: Brain Imaging

18F-2-Fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (18F-FDG) can be used to image regional cerebral glucose consumption which allows diagnostic imaging for a number of neurological indications such as dementia, epilepsy and movement disorders. Although not often used in neuro-oncology, it remains the method of choice in the diagnosis and staging of CNS lymphoma. Adhering to guidelines for patient preparation, using the correct imaging acquisition and reconstruction parameters, as well as defining the optimal image display for reporting are all crucial in order to obtain images of diagnostic quality. Furthermore, reporting images in the presence of neurological degenerative diseases can benefit hugely using additional post-processing and quantification of the images. This chapter summarises published guidelines, at the time of writing, on optimal imaging procedures for brain 18F-FDG PET/CT and introduces the reader to some of the more widely available quantification tools and references for optional further reading of developments in the field.