[ super(18)F] Uptake for PET/CT Scan Associated with Coronary Artery Disease

Since the feasibility of a fluoride positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scan for imaging atherosclerosis has not been well documented, a study was undertaken to assess fluoride uptake of vascular calcification in various major arteries, including coronary arteries. The imaging data and cardiovascular history of 61 patients who received whole-body sodium [ super(18)F]-fluoride PET/CT studies at our institution from 2009 to 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. [ super(18)F] uptake and calcification in major arteries, including coronary arteries, were analyzed by both visual assessment and standardized uptake value measurement. [ super(18)F] uptake in vascular walls was demonstrated in 361 sites of 54 (96%) patients, whereas calcification was observed in 317 sites of 49 (88%) patients. A significant correlation between the [ super(18)F] uptake and calcification was observed in most of the arterial walls, except in those of the abdominal aorta. [ super(18)F] uptake in coronary arteries was demonstrated in 28 (46%) patients and coronary calcifications were observed in 34 (56%) patients. There was a significant correlation between a history of cardiovascular events and the [ super(18)F] uptake in coronary arteries. The coronary fluoride uptake value in patients with cardiovascular events was significantly higher than in patients without cardiovascular events. It is concluded that sodium [ super(18)F]-fluoride PET/CT might be useful in the evaluation of the atherosclerotic process in major arteries, including coronary arteries. An increased [ super(18)F] uptake in coronary arteries may be associated with an increased cardiovascular risk.