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Accumulation of FDG in central venous catheter mimicking lymph node metastasis

Case contributed by Jayanth Keshavamurthy
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

PET-CT was performed for surveillance of colon cancer

Patient Data

Age: 60 years
Gender: Male

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.

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