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What is Fludeoxyglucose (18F)?
Fludeoxyglucose (18F), also known as 18F-FDG, FDG, or fluorodeoxyglucose (18F), is a special type of drug used in medical imaging[1]. It’s not a treatment drug, but rather a diagnostic tool that helps doctors see what’s happening inside your body[2].
How It Works
Fludeoxyglucose (18F) is used in a type of imaging called PET/CT, which stands for Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography[1]. This is a sophisticated scanning technique that combines two types of images to give doctors a detailed look at your body’s structures and functions.
When you receive Fludeoxyglucose (18F), it travels through your body and is absorbed by cells that are using a lot of energy, such as cancer cells. The drug is slightly radioactive, which allows the PET scanner to detect where it has accumulated in your body[2].
Medical Uses
Fludeoxyglucose (18F) is used to help diagnose and monitor several conditions:
- Cancer: It’s particularly useful in detecting and monitoring certain types of cancer, including:
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Head and neck cancer
- Inflammation: It can help identify areas of inflammation in the body[2].
- Pancreatic Cancer: In some studies, it’s used to help plan treatment for pancreatic cancer[1].
Administration
Fludeoxyglucose (18F) is given as a single intravenous (IV) injection. The dose is calculated based on each patient’s needs and the specific purpose of the scan[1][2]. After the injection, you’ll need to wait for a short period before the scanning begins, to allow the drug to distribute throughout your body.
Safety and Monitoring
While Fludeoxyglucose (18F) is generally considered safe, doctors carefully monitor patients after administration. This monitoring typically includes:
- Vital signs: Doctors will check your ECG (a test that measures your heart’s electrical activity), blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature[2].
- Blood tests: These may include serum chemistry, clotting status, and hematology (blood cell counts)[2].
- Adverse event collection: Doctors will keep track of any side effects or unexpected reactions[2].
These checks are typically done at least twice within 8 days after the procedure[2].
