Case Report: Detecting False-Positive PET PSMA in the Evaluation of Prostate Cancer

Edward M. Schaeffer, MD, PhD, chair of Urology at Northwestern Medicine, describes the case of a 74-year-old man who was referred to Northwestern Medicine Urology for a second opinion after being diagnosed with unfavorable intermediate and high-grade prostate cancer. His initial PET PSMA scan results showed an adenopathy in his right axilla. In reviewing the results, the Northwestern Medicine Genitourinary Oncology Tumor Board quickly confirmed a classic case of embolization of the PET tracer agent from right-handed IV administration. A repeat PET scan with an injection site on the left hand showed no lymph node present on the right or left axilla.
In recent years, PET PSMA has become an increasingly common imaging method as it enhances the detection of prostate cancer and aids in treatment decisions. However, despite its greater specificity, there is the potential for false-positive results and interpretations, as described here.
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