Accumulation of FDG in central venous catheter mimicking lymph node metastasis
Diagnosis almost certain
Presentation
PET-CT was performed for surveillance of colon cancer
Patient Data
Age: 60 years
Gender: Male
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PET-CT showing an FDG avid lesion in the right atrium at the tip of the Port-a-cath with no anatomic abnormality seen on the corresponding CT images.
The patient received radiotracer into the Port-a-cath as there was poor intravenous access.
This should not be called a metastasis.
Case Discussion
Differential for intense FDG activity in the port includes infection, inflammation, FDG stasis, FDG emboli, and thrombus which can be either FDG-avid or photopenic.
Caveat: avoid FDG injection via a port as much as possible.