Clinical role of FDG PET/CT for methotrexate-related malignant lymphoma

Clin Nucl Med. 2011 Jul;36(7):533-7. doi: 10.1097/RLU.0b013e3182177296.

Abstract

Methotrexate-related malignant lymphoma (MTX-RML) is a type of therapy-related lymphoma, and it often occurs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The most distinctive characteristic of MTX-RML is a quick response to withdrawal of MTX. However, because there is a risk of recurrence without a distinctive indicator of disease, close follow-up is needed. We present F-18 2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG) postitron emission tomography (PET) or computed tomography (CT) images of MTX-RML along with the characteristic clinical presentation of MTX-RML. FDG PET/CT has the advantage of being able to detect malignant lymphoma in patients who have undergone MTX treatment. After withdrawal of MTX, FDG uptake decreases along with a reduction in the volume of lesions. Although recurrent lesion develops independent to the initial FDG PET/CT findings, FDG PET/CT is useful for early detection of unexpected recurrent lesions. FDG PET/CT allows for the assessment of malignant lymphoma and recurrent lesions in patients who received MTX therapy, which is crucial for the management of MTX-RML.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18*
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma / chemically induced*
  • Lymphoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Methotrexate / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Whole Body Imaging

Substances

  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18
  • Methotrexate