Abstract
The positron emission tomography combined with computer tomography (PET/CT) is a well established imaging modality in the oncological practice. The most frequently used radiopharmaceutical is 2-deoxy-2-(F-18) fluoro-D-glucose (FDG).
Due to the unspecific nature of its biodistribution high uptake of FDG reflects also increased metabolic turnover in the cells mediating inflammatory reaction. The most important role of FDG PET/CT in cardiac non-perfusion imaging is in the detection of the inflammation of the heart compartments, ev. implantable devices.
The neoplastic diseases of the heart represent another (less frequent) possible role for PET imaging. A review of literature and clinical experiences are presented in this review article.