Prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT parameters and histopathologic variables in head and neck cancer

Abstract Introduction 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography parameters such as; maximum standardized uptake values, standard metabolic tumor volume and otal lesion glycosis are important prognostic biomarkers in cancers. Objective To investigate the prognostic value of these parameters in patients with head and neck cancers. Methods We performed a retrospective study including 47 patients with head and neck cancer who underwent18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography prior to treatment. Standard metabolic tumor volume, otal lesion glycosis and standardized uptake were measured for each patient. The prognostic value of quantitative 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography parameters and clinicopathologic variables on disease free survival and overall survival were analyzed. Results The median (range) standard metabolic tumor volume and otal lesion glycosis and standardized uptake were 7.63 cm3 (0.6–34.3), 68.9 g (2.58–524.5 g), 13.89 (4.89–33.03 g/mL), respectively. Lymph node metastases and tumour differentiation were significant variables for disease free survival and overall survival, however, all 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography parameters were not associated with disease- free survival and overall survival. Conclusion Pretreatment quantities positron emission tomography parameters did not predict survival in head and neck cancer.