18F‐fludeoxyglucose positron emission computed tomography (18F‐FDG‐PET/CT) versus 68Ga‐DOTATATE‐PET/CT in patients with head and neck cancer: Comparisons and implications for treatment

• DOI: 10.1002/hed.27243
• Publication Date: 2022-11-19T13:50:21Z
• Authors: Rusha Patel; Gary Marano; Joe Joseph; Jeffson Chung; Andrew Plata; Jeffrey A. Vos
• Keywords: Concordance

Abstract Background Tumor‐specific molecular imaging in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is not well established. Somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) are found solid tumors, including HNSCC. 68 Ga‐DOTATATE, a commercially available radionuclide that binds SSTRs, may have utility Methods Patients with HNSCC received pretreatment 18 F‐FDG‐PET/CT Ga‐DOTATATE. Imaging was compared for concordance. When available, surgical resection specimens were to findings. Historic tumor assessed both SSTR p16/human papilloma virus (HPV) expression. Results Twenty patients imaged. Fifteen had oropharyngeal cancer. Primary site concordant between modalities all patients. One of 45 lymph nodes discordant. Retrospective specimen review showed significant correlation expression HPV/p16 No adverse events occurred. Conclusions Ga‐DOTATATE safe effective be increased HPV‐mediated tumors. Targeted therapies should explored.