Utility of [18F] Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission TomographyComputed Tomography Scan in Inflammatory Myopathies: Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract EN

Introduction.

Inflammatory myopathies are a rare group of diseases characterized by proximal weakness.

Incidence ranges from 7.98/million/year and prevalence at 14/100,000.

The utility of [18F] fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) scan is increasing for the complementary diagnosis of myopathies.

Case Report.

An 84-year-old male was admitted with a history of difficulty rising from a chair and a fall.

Laboratory results showed increased creatine kinase levels of more than 50 times the normal reference values.

Electromyography (EMG) showed myopathic changes, and FDG-PET/CT scan showed increased FDG uptake in bilateral quadriceps.

A biopsy was performed revealing lymphocytic predominant infiltrates and myonecrosis.

Prednisone and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were administered with strength improvement.

The patient was discharged for further follow-up.

Discussion.

FDG-PET/CT in inflammatory diseases has proven useful as muscle fibers have increased FDG uptake.

In some cases, FDG-PET/CT is also useful in determining associated neoplastic diseases.