Cancer Integrin Imaging With 68 Ga-Trivehexin PET-CT in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Improves Diagnostic Accuracy.

Abstract

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Locoregional nodal involvement by OSCC is commonly encountered. Current conventional and functional imaging modalities have limited diagnostic accuracy in nodal assessment, particularly in head and neck cancer. Thus, definitive management of head and neck malignancies customarily addresses the locoregional nodes along with the primary malignancy. However, OSCC, particularly tongue cancer, shows erratic lymphatic drainage and thus commonly requires extensive bilateral neck dissection, leading to significant morbidity. Cancer integrin imaging with 68 Ga-trivehexin PET-CT can offer highly specific result and thus has the potential for effective tailored management.