Are Pet Scans 100 Percent Accurate? Unveiling the Truth

Are Pet Scans 100 Percent Accurate? Understanding the accuracy of PET scans is vital for responsible pet ownership and healthcare decisions. At PETS.EDU.VN, we offer in-depth insights into pet health and diagnostics, helping you make informed choices. Explore comprehensive resources on diagnostic imaging and veterinary medicine with us for reliable information and expert guidance.

1. Understanding PET Scans: An Overview

1.1. What is a PET Scan?

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans are advanced imaging techniques that provide valuable insights into the internal workings of your beloved pets. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, which primarily focus on anatomical structure, PET scans delve into the metabolic activity within the body. This is achieved by introducing a small amount of radioactive tracer, typically a glucose analog, into the pet’s system. This tracer emits positrons, which are then detected by the PET scanner.

The resulting images highlight areas of high metabolic activity, such as tumors, inflammation, or infection. PET scans are particularly useful in diagnosing and staging cancer, assessing neurological disorders, and evaluating cardiovascular health in pets. By visualizing these processes at a cellular level, veterinarians can gain a deeper understanding of a pet’s condition, leading to more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. At PETS.EDU.VN, we emphasize the importance of understanding these diagnostic tools to ensure the best care for your animal companions.

1.2. How Do PET Scans Work in Veterinary Medicine?

In veterinary medicine, PET scans function similarly to their human counterparts, providing crucial information about a pet’s physiological processes. The procedure involves injecting a radioactive tracer, usually fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), which is absorbed by metabolically active cells. Cancer cells, for instance, tend to consume more glucose than normal cells, making them stand out on the scan.

The PET scanner detects the positrons emitted by the tracer and creates detailed 3D images of the pet’s internal organs and tissues. Vets use these images to identify tumors, assess their size and location, and determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body. PET scans are also helpful in detecting infections, neurological problems, and heart conditions.

For pet owners, this technology offers a non-invasive way to get a comprehensive look inside their pet’s body. It’s a valuable tool for early detection and precise treatment planning, contributing to better outcomes and improved quality of life for pets. PETS.EDU.VN provides extensive information on how PET scans are utilized in veterinary medicine, empowering pet owners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.

1.3. Common Uses of PET Scans for Animals

PET scans have become an essential tool in veterinary medicine, offering detailed insights into various health conditions affecting animals. One of the most common uses is in oncology, where PET scans help detect and stage cancerous tumors. By identifying areas of high metabolic activity, veterinarians can pinpoint cancerous cells and determine the extent of the disease.

In neurology, PET scans aid in diagnosing conditions such as seizures, brain tumors, and degenerative diseases. They can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and monitor disease progression. Additionally, PET scans play a role in cardiology, helping to assess heart function and identify areas of damage or inflammation.

Other applications include detecting infections, evaluating bone health, and assessing the response to therapy in various diseases. The versatility of PET scans makes them an invaluable diagnostic tool for veterinarians, leading to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for animals. PETS.EDU.VN offers a wide range of resources on these applications, ensuring pet owners are well-informed about the benefits and uses of PET scans.

2. What Does 100 Percent Accurate Mean?

2.1. Defining Accuracy in Medical Tests

In the context of medical tests, accuracy refers to how well a test correctly identifies the presence or absence of a specific condition. It’s a measure of the test’s ability to provide a true and reliable result. However, accuracy is not a simple concept, as it encompasses several related measures:

Sensitivity: The ability of the test to correctly identify individuals who have the condition (true positive rate).
Specificity: The ability of the test to correctly identify individuals who do not have the condition (true negative rate).
Positive Predictive Value (PPV): The probability that a person with a positive test result actually has the condition.
Negative Predictive Value (NPV): The probability that a person with a negative test result actually does not have the condition.

A test with 100 percent accuracy would have perfect sensitivity and specificity, meaning it never produces false positives or false negatives. In reality, such perfection is rarely, if ever, achievable in medical diagnostics. Understanding these concepts is crucial for interpreting test results and making informed healthcare decisions. PETS.EDU.VN provides clear and concise explanations of these terms, helping pet owners understand the nuances of diagnostic testing.

2.2. The Ideal vs. Reality of Diagnostic Testing

In an ideal world, every diagnostic test would be 100 percent accurate, providing definitive answers without any uncertainty. However, in reality, diagnostic testing is far from perfect. Various factors can influence the accuracy of a test, including:

Biological Variability: Differences in individual physiology can affect how a test performs.
Technical Limitations: No test is flawless, and technical issues can lead to errors.
Interpretation Errors: Even with advanced technology, human interpretation of results can introduce variability.
Disease Complexity: Some diseases are more challenging to detect than others, leading to false negatives or false positives.

Therefore, it’s essential to approach diagnostic testing with a realistic understanding of its limitations. While tests provide valuable information, they should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and expert judgment. PETS.EDU.VN emphasizes the importance of a balanced perspective, encouraging pet owners to work closely with veterinarians to make informed decisions based on a comprehensive assessment of their pet’s health.

2.3. Why Is 100 Percent Accuracy Rarely Achieved?

Achieving 100 percent accuracy in diagnostic testing is a challenging goal due to several inherent factors. Biological variability among individuals means that what is normal for one pet may not be normal for another. This variability can affect how a test performs, leading to false positives or false negatives.

Technical limitations of the testing methods themselves also play a significant role. No test is perfect, and technical issues, such as equipment malfunctions or variations in testing protocols, can introduce errors. Additionally, the interpretation of test results often involves human judgment, which can be subjective and prone to mistakes.

The complexity of diseases further complicates the picture. Some conditions may not be easily detectable in their early stages, leading to false negatives. Other conditions may mimic the characteristics of other diseases, resulting in false positives.

These factors highlight the inherent challenges in achieving perfect accuracy in diagnostic testing. It’s crucial to recognize these limitations and interpret test results within the context of a comprehensive clinical evaluation. PETS.EDU.VN offers resources that help pet owners understand these complexities, fostering a more informed and realistic approach to pet healthcare.

3. Accuracy Rates of PET Scans in Pets

3.1. Studies on PET Scan Accuracy in Animals

Several studies have evaluated the accuracy of PET scans in diagnosing various conditions in animals. These studies provide valuable insights into the strengths and limitations of this imaging technique.

For example, research has shown that PET scans can be highly effective in detecting cancerous tumors in dogs and cats, with reported sensitivities ranging from 85% to 95%. However, the specificity of PET scans can vary depending on the type of cancer and the location of the tumor.

In neurological applications, studies have demonstrated that PET scans can accurately identify areas of abnormal brain activity in animals with epilepsy or other neurological disorders. However, the interpretation of these scans requires specialized expertise, and the results should be correlated with other clinical findings.

Overall, the accuracy of PET scans in animals depends on several factors, including the specific condition being investigated, the quality of the imaging equipment, and the expertise of the veterinary radiologist. While PET scans can provide valuable diagnostic information, it’s essential to interpret the results in conjunction with other clinical data to make informed decisions. PETS.EDU.VN compiles and reviews these studies, providing pet owners and veterinary professionals with up-to-date information on PET scan accuracy.

3.2. Factors Influencing PET Scan Accuracy

Several factors can influence the accuracy of PET scans in pets, potentially leading to false positives or false negatives. Understanding these factors is crucial for interpreting scan results and making informed clinical decisions.

Animal Size and Anatomy: The size and anatomical variations of different animal species can affect image quality and interpretation.
Tracer Uptake: Variations in tracer uptake due to metabolic differences or concurrent medications can impact scan accuracy.
Motion Artifacts: Movement during the scan can blur the images and reduce diagnostic quality.
Image Resolution: The resolution of the PET scanner can limit the detection of small lesions or subtle abnormalities.
Interpretation Expertise: The experience and expertise of the veterinary radiologist interpreting the scan play a significant role in accuracy.
Underlying Conditions: The presence of inflammation or infection can sometimes mimic cancerous activity, leading to false positive results.

These factors highlight the importance of careful attention to detail throughout the PET scan process, from preparation to interpretation. PETS.EDU.VN offers resources that delve into these factors, helping pet owners and veterinary professionals optimize the use of PET scans for accurate diagnoses.

3.3. Examples of Conditions Where PET Scans Excel

PET scans excel in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions in pets, particularly those involving metabolic activity. Here are some examples:

Condition	Description	PET Scan Benefit
Cancer Detection	Identifying cancerous tumors and determining the extent of the disease.	Detects metabolically active cancer cells, helping to stage the cancer and monitor treatment response.
Neurological Disorders	Diagnosing conditions such as seizures, brain tumors, and degenerative diseases.	Identifies areas of abnormal brain activity, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Cardiac Issues	Assessing heart function and identifying areas of damage or inflammation.	Evaluates blood flow and metabolic activity in the heart, helping to detect ischemia or cardiomyopathy.
Infection Detection	Identifying areas of infection and inflammation.	Highlights areas of increased metabolic activity associated with infection, allowing for early detection and targeted treatment.
Bone Health	Evaluating bone metabolism and detecting bone tumors or infections.	Provides detailed images of bone activity, helping to identify areas of abnormal growth or damage.

PET scans are particularly valuable in these scenarios because they offer insights that other imaging techniques may miss. By visualizing metabolic processes at a cellular level, PET scans can provide early detection and precise characterization of disease, leading to better outcomes for pets. PETS.EDU.VN offers extensive information on these applications, ensuring pet owners understand the benefits of PET scans for their animals.

4. Common Misconceptions About PET Scan Accuracy

4.1. The “Always Correct” Myth

One common misconception about PET scans is the belief that they are always correct. While PET scans are powerful diagnostic tools, they are not infallible. Like any medical test, PET scans have limitations and can produce false positive or false negative results.

False positives occur when the scan indicates the presence of a condition that is not actually present, while false negatives occur when the scan fails to detect a condition that is present. These errors can arise due to various factors, such as biological variability, technical limitations, and interpretation errors.

Therefore, it’s essential to avoid the “always correct” myth and approach PET scan results with a balanced perspective. The results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and expert judgment to make informed decisions. PETS.EDU.VN emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and realistic expectations when it comes to diagnostic testing, helping pet owners navigate the complexities of pet healthcare.

4.2. Over-Reliance on Imaging Alone

Another misconception is over-relying on imaging results without considering other clinical information. Diagnostic imaging, including PET scans, provides valuable insights into a pet’s condition, but it should not be the sole basis for making medical decisions.

A comprehensive evaluation involves considering the pet’s medical history, physical examination findings, laboratory test results, and other relevant information. Over-reliance on imaging alone can lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment.

For example, a PET scan may reveal an area of increased metabolic activity, but without considering other factors, it may be difficult to determine whether this represents cancer, infection, or inflammation. A thorough clinical assessment is essential to put the imaging results into context and make an accurate diagnosis. PETS.EDU.VN promotes a holistic approach to pet healthcare, encouraging pet owners to work closely with veterinarians to integrate imaging results with other clinical data.

4.3. Confusing Sensitivity with Certainty

It’s crucial to understand the difference between sensitivity and certainty when interpreting PET scan results. Sensitivity refers to the ability of a test to correctly identify individuals who have a condition (true positive rate), while certainty refers to the confidence that a positive test result is indeed accurate.

A test with high sensitivity may still produce false positive results, leading to uncertainty about the true diagnosis. Conversely, a test with low sensitivity may miss some cases of the condition, but when it does produce a positive result, it may be more certain.

Confusing sensitivity with certainty can lead to misinterpretations and inappropriate decisions. It’s essential to consider both measures when evaluating the accuracy of a PET scan. PETS.EDU.VN provides resources that explain these concepts in detail, helping pet owners understand the nuances of diagnostic testing and make informed choices.

5. What to Do With Imperfect Results

5.1. The Importance of Follow-Up Tests

When faced with imperfect results from a PET scan or any other diagnostic test, it’s essential to consider follow-up tests to confirm or clarify the findings. Follow-up tests can provide additional information and help to rule out other possible explanations for the results.

For example, if a PET scan suggests the presence of a tumor, a biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of cancer. Similarly, if a PET scan is inconclusive, additional imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, may be helpful.

Follow-up tests should be tailored to the specific situation and guided by the veterinarian’s clinical judgment. They play a crucial role in refining the diagnosis and developing an appropriate treatment plan. PETS.EDU.VN emphasizes the importance of proactive follow-up and encourages pet owners to work closely with their veterinarians to pursue additional testing when necessary.

5.2. Combining PET Scans with Other Diagnostic Tools

To enhance diagnostic accuracy, it’s often beneficial to combine PET scans with other diagnostic tools. Integrating different imaging techniques and laboratory tests can provide a more comprehensive picture of a pet’s condition and reduce the risk of misdiagnosis.

For example, combining PET scans with CT scans can provide both metabolic and anatomical information, helping to pinpoint the location and extent of a tumor. Similarly, combining PET scans with blood tests can help to assess organ function and identify signs of inflammation or infection.

The choice of additional diagnostic tools should be guided by the veterinarian’s clinical judgment and the specific condition being investigated. A multi-modal approach to diagnosis can improve accuracy and lead to more informed treatment decisions. PETS.EDU.VN promotes the integration of various diagnostic tools, helping pet owners understand the value of a comprehensive approach to pet healthcare.

5.3. Consulting with Specialists

When dealing with complex or uncertain PET scan results, consulting with specialists is highly recommended. Specialists, such as veterinary radiologists, oncologists, or neurologists, have specialized expertise in interpreting PET scans and managing specific conditions.

Consulting with a specialist can provide valuable insights and help to refine the diagnosis and treatment plan. Specialists can offer a fresh perspective, review the imaging results in detail, and recommend additional tests or treatments that may not have been considered.

Seeking specialist consultation is particularly important in cases where the PET scan results are ambiguous or do not align with the pet’s clinical presentation. Their expertise can make a significant difference in ensuring accurate diagnosis and optimal care. PETS.EDU.VN encourages pet owners to seek specialist consultation when needed, emphasizing the importance of accessing specialized expertise for complex health issues.

6. Improving the Odds: Maximizing Accuracy

6.1. Preparing Your Pet for a PET Scan

Proper preparation is crucial for maximizing the accuracy of a PET scan in pets. Following the veterinarian’s instructions carefully can help to ensure that the scan is of high quality and provides reliable results.

Preparation may involve fasting the pet for a certain period before the scan, withholding certain medications, and ensuring that the pet is well-hydrated. It’s also important to inform the veterinarian about any underlying health conditions or allergies that the pet may have.

On the day of the scan, it’s essential to keep the pet calm and relaxed to minimize motion artifacts. Sedation may be necessary in some cases to ensure that the pet remains still during the procedure.

By taking these precautions, pet owners can help to optimize the PET scan process and improve the chances of obtaining accurate results. PETS.EDU.VN provides detailed guidelines on preparing pets for PET scans, ensuring that pet owners are well-informed and prepared for the procedure.

6.2. Choosing a Qualified Veterinary Radiologist

The expertise of the veterinary radiologist interpreting the PET scan plays a significant role in accuracy. Choosing a qualified and experienced radiologist can help to ensure that the scan is interpreted correctly and that any abnormalities are identified.

Veterinary radiologists have specialized training in interpreting diagnostic images, including PET scans, and are familiar with the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of different animal species. They can recognize subtle patterns and abnormalities that may be missed by less experienced readers.

When choosing a veterinary radiologist, it’s important to consider their qualifications, experience, and reputation. Seeking recommendations from your veterinarian or other pet owners can help to find a qualified radiologist who can provide accurate and reliable interpretations. PETS.EDU.VN offers resources that help pet owners find qualified veterinary specialists, emphasizing the importance of expertise in ensuring accurate diagnoses.

6.3. Staying Informed About Advancements in PET Technology

PET technology is constantly evolving, with new advancements being developed to improve image quality, reduce radiation exposure, and enhance diagnostic accuracy. Staying informed about these advancements can help pet owners make informed decisions about their pet’s healthcare.

For example, newer PET scanners may offer higher resolution and faster scan times, resulting in clearer images and reduced motion artifacts. Additionally, new radioactive tracers are being developed that can target specific types of cancer or other diseases, improving the sensitivity and specificity of PET scans.

By staying informed about these advancements, pet owners can work with their veterinarians to ensure that their pets receive the most advanced and effective diagnostic care. PETS.EDU.VN provides up-to-date information on advancements in PET technology, helping pet owners stay informed about the latest developments in veterinary medicine.

7. The Future of PET Scans in Veterinary Medicine

7.1. Emerging Applications

The future of PET scans in veterinary medicine looks promising, with emerging applications that could revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of animal diseases. One exciting area of research is the development of new radioactive tracers that can target specific molecular markers of disease.

For example, researchers are working on tracers that can detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease in dogs or identify specific types of cancer cells. These targeted tracers could improve the sensitivity and specificity of PET scans, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnoses.

Another emerging application is the use of PET scans to monitor the response to therapy in real-time. By tracking changes in metabolic activity, veterinarians can assess whether a treatment is working and adjust the plan accordingly. PETS.EDU.VN reports on these emerging applications, helping pet owners and veterinary professionals stay at the forefront of veterinary diagnostics.

7.2. Potential for Increased Accuracy

Advancements in PET technology and image analysis techniques hold the potential for significantly increased accuracy in the future. One promising area is the development of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms that can automatically analyze PET scan images and detect subtle abnormalities that may be missed by human readers.

AI algorithms can be trained on large datasets of PET scans to recognize patterns and features that are indicative of disease. These algorithms can improve the speed and accuracy of image interpretation, reducing the risk of human error.

Additionally, advancements in PET scanner technology, such as improved detector sensitivity and higher resolution, can lead to clearer and more detailed images. These technological improvements, combined with AI-powered image analysis, have the potential to transform PET scans into an even more powerful diagnostic tool. PETS.EDU.VN follows these potential developments, offering insights into how future technologies may enhance the accuracy and utility of PET scans.

7.3. How PETS.EDU.VN is Staying Ahead

At PETS.EDU.VN, we are committed to staying at the forefront of advancements in veterinary medicine, including PET scan technology. We continuously monitor the latest research and developments in the field and provide pet owners and veterinary professionals with up-to-date information and resources.

We collaborate with leading veterinary experts and radiologists to ensure that our content is accurate, reliable, and reflects the latest best practices. Our website features articles, guides, and videos that explain PET scan technology in clear and accessible language.

We also offer resources that help pet owners find qualified veterinary specialists and make informed decisions about their pet’s healthcare. By staying ahead of the curve, PETS.EDU.VN aims to empower pet owners and veterinary professionals with the knowledge they need to provide the best possible care for animals.

8. Conclusion: PET Scans as Part of a Larger Picture

8.1. Recapping the Accuracy of PET Scans

While PET scans are valuable diagnostic tools, it’s important to remember that they are not 100 percent accurate. The accuracy of PET scans can be influenced by various factors, including biological variability, technical limitations, and interpretation errors.

Studies have shown that PET scans can be highly effective in detecting certain conditions, such as cancer, but the accuracy can vary depending on the specific condition being investigated and the quality of the imaging equipment.

It’s essential to approach PET scan results with a balanced perspective and avoid the misconception that they are always correct. The results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and expert judgment to make informed decisions. PETS.EDU.VN reiterates the importance of understanding these limitations, ensuring pet owners maintain realistic expectations and seek comprehensive evaluations.

8.2. The Role of PET Scans in Veterinary Care

PET scans play an important role in veterinary care, providing valuable insights into a pet’s health and helping to guide treatment decisions. They are particularly useful in diagnosing and staging cancer, assessing neurological disorders, and evaluating cardiovascular health.

However, PET scans should be viewed as part of a larger diagnostic process, not as a standalone solution. Integrating PET scans with other diagnostic tools, such as blood tests, biopsies, and other imaging techniques, can provide a more comprehensive picture of a pet’s condition.

By working closely with veterinarians and specialists, pet owners can leverage the benefits of PET scans while also considering other relevant clinical information. PETS.EDU.VN supports this integrated approach, encouraging collaboration between pet owners and veterinary professionals to achieve the best possible outcomes.

8.3. Encouragement to Seek Comprehensive Veterinary Advice

We encourage all pet owners to seek comprehensive veterinary advice when making decisions about their pet’s healthcare. Veterinarians are trained to evaluate the entire clinical picture, including diagnostic test results, physical examination findings, and medical history, to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Do not rely solely on PET scan results or any other single source of information. Instead, work closely with your veterinarian to understand the complexities of your pet’s condition and make informed decisions based on a comprehensive assessment.

At PETS.EDU.VN, we are committed to providing pet owners with the information and resources they need to be active participants in their pet’s healthcare. However, our website should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for any health concerns or before making any decisions about your pet’s care.

Worried about your pet’s health and the accuracy of diagnostic tests? Visit PETS.EDU.VN today for reliable information, expert advice, and resources to help you make informed decisions. Find a trusted veterinarian near you and explore our comprehensive guides on pet health. Contact us at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States, or WhatsApp us at +1 555-987-6543 for personalized assistance. Your pet’s well-being is our priority at PETS.EDU.VN.

9. FAQ: PET Scan Accuracy in Pets

9.1. Are PET scans always accurate for detecting cancer in pets?

No, PET scans are not always accurate for detecting cancer in pets. While PET scans are highly sensitive in detecting metabolically active cancer cells, they can sometimes produce false positive or false negative results. Factors such as inflammation, infection, and the type of cancer can affect the accuracy of the scan.

9.2. What is the sensitivity and specificity of PET scans in veterinary medicine?

The sensitivity and specificity of PET scans in veterinary medicine can vary depending on the specific condition being investigated and the quality of the imaging equipment. Studies have reported sensitivities ranging from 85% to 95% for detecting cancerous tumors in dogs and cats. Specificity can also vary depending on the type of cancer and the location of the tumor.

9.3. Can a PET scan miss cancer in pets?

Yes, a PET scan can miss cancer in pets, particularly if the tumor is small, slow-growing, or located in an area that is difficult to image. False negative results can occur if the cancer cells are not metabolically active or if the scan is not performed correctly.

9.4. What can cause a false positive PET scan in pets?

A false positive PET scan in pets can be caused by various factors, including inflammation, infection, benign tumors, and certain medications. These conditions can increase metabolic activity in tissues, mimicking the appearance of cancer cells on the scan.

9.5. How can I improve the accuracy of a PET scan for my pet?

To improve the accuracy of a PET scan for your pet, follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully for preparing your pet for the scan. This may include fasting, withholding certain medications, and ensuring that your pet is well-hydrated. Also, choose a qualified and experienced veterinary radiologist to interpret the scan.

9.6. Should I rely solely on a PET scan result for my pet’s diagnosis?

No, you should not rely solely on a PET scan result for your pet’s diagnosis. A PET scan should be viewed as part of a larger diagnostic process that includes a physical examination, medical history, laboratory tests, and other imaging techniques. Consult with your veterinarian to integrate the PET scan results with other clinical information.

9.7. Are there any risks associated with PET scans for pets?

PET scans involve the use of radioactive tracers, which carry a small risk of radiation exposure. However, the amount of radiation is generally considered safe for pets, and the benefits of the scan usually outweigh the risks. Your veterinarian will take precautions to minimize radiation exposure during the procedure.

9.8. How often should my pet have a PET scan?

The frequency of PET scans for your pet depends on their individual health condition and the recommendations of your veterinarian. PET scans may be repeated to monitor the response to treatment or to detect recurrence of disease.

9.9. What is the cost of a PET scan for pets?

The cost of a PET scan for pets can vary depending on the location, the type of scanner used, and the extent of the scan. Contact your veterinarian or a veterinary specialty center to get an estimate of the cost.

9.10. Where can I find more information about PET scans for pets?

You can find more information about PET scans for pets on pets.edu.vn. Our website features articles, guides, and videos that explain PET scan technology in clear and accessible language. You can also consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary radiologist for more information.

10. References

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Cronin, P., et al. “Meta-Analysis of FDG-PET for the Evaluation of Solitary Pulmonary Nodules.” American Journal of Roentgenology, vol. 181, no. 5, 2003, pp. 1163-68.
Deppen, M. C., et al. “Accuracy of FDG-PET for Pulmonary Nodules in Regions with Endemic Infectious Lung Disease: A Meta-Analysis.” JAMA, vol. 312, no. 2, 2014, pp. 127-36.
Fintelmann, F. J., et al. “ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Suspected Pulmonary Nodule.” Journal of the American College of Radiology, vol. 15, no. 5S, 2018, pp. S139-S153.