False positive finding of F18-FDG in non-Hodgkins lymphoma; an inflamed appendix.
Although PET-CT scanning is a tremendous advancement in oncology; for accurate interpretation, it is important to understand its limitations. Not all PET-positive lesions are cancerous. Both activated macrophages and metabolically active carcinomas will accumulate F18-FDG. Due to limited specificity of FDG-PET/CT, histologic assessment may be required to establish correct diagnosis. We describe a case of 37-year-old man with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, who underwent F18-FDG PET/CT at the completion of chemotherapy. Imaging showed metabolically active right pelvic soft tissue. Surgical resection confirmed appendicitis.