PET/CT in lymphoma: best clinics abroad

PET/CT can help assess the extent of lymphoma and its response to treatment when the disease takes up the radioactive glucose analogue FDG. This is often relevant to Hodgkin lymphoma and several non-Hodgkin lymphoma subtypes, but uptake and usefulness vary between types. PET information is combined with CT images to locate findings. The haematologist selects the examination and its timing for the specific clinical question. Imaging does not replace the tissue examination needed to establish and classify lymphoma.

Before booking, send the pathology report, treatment summary and earlier scans. Confirm whether the appointment is for initial staging, response assessment or investigation of suspected relapse. Recent treatment and inflammation can affect uptake, so the date should be agreed with the treating team. Follow the department’s preparation instructions, particularly if you have diabetes, and disclose pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask whether CT contrast is planned, what the price includes and when the report will be discussed. A positive area on PET/CT does not by itself confirm active lymphoma.

How PET/CT supports lymphoma care

For FDG-avid lymphoma, PET/CT can map involved lymph nodes and other affected tissues before treatment. A baseline study also provides a comparison for later response assessment. The role differs by subtype: Hodgkin lymphoma and many aggressive lymphomas commonly take up FDG, while some indolent types show variable uptake. The imaging plan should follow the confirmed diagnosis and the question the specialist needs to answer.

At selected points during or after treatment, PET/CT may help assess response or investigate suspected relapse. It is not automatically needed at every follow-up visit. Discuss the purpose with your haematologist; our oncology section provides related information.

Response assessment and Deauville

The report may use the five-point Deauville scale, which compares FDG uptake with reference tissues. Interpretation also depends on the baseline scan, treatment stage and clinical context. A score should be explained by the treating specialist together with the overall response assessment. It does not provide a treatment instruction by itself.

Inflammation, infection and recent treatment can cause increased uptake and false-positive findings. A residual abnormality may need comparison, additional imaging or biopsy before its significance is clear. Agree the scan date with the treating team and provide the dates of recent therapy. PET/CT alone cannot determine the lymphoma subtype.

Preparation and safety

For FDG imaging, follow the department’s instructions about fasting, drinks and recent exercise. If you have diabetes, contact it in advance for an individual plan covering meals, insulin and other medicines. Blood glucose may be checked before injection. Rest as instructed during the uptake period and tell staff if lying still is difficult.

Tell the team about pregnancy, breastfeeding and previous contrast reactions. PET and CT involve ionising radiation; the benefit and exposure are considered for the requested examination. Breastfeeding and close-contact advice depend on the radiotracer. CT contrast is a separate decision and may require assessment of kidney function.

Arranging the scan and results review

• Submit pathology, treatment dates and earlier images for comparison.
• Confirm the FDG protocol, coverage and type of CT requested.
• Check whether contrast, images, the report and a consultation are included.

Obtain a personalised quote and agree how the report will reach your haematologist. Preparation, uptake and scanning all contribute to the visit; report turnaround is separate. Confirm both before arranging travel.

Frequently asked questions

Can PET/CT diagnose lymphoma on its own?

No. Tissue assessment is needed to establish and classify lymphoma.

Does increased uptake mean treatment failed?

Not necessarily. The specialist assesses possible inflammatory or treatment-related changes alongside the other findings.

How often should scans be repeated?

There is no universal interval. The subtype, treatment protocol and reason for reassessment guide the schedule.