Positron emission tomography using [F-18] fluorodeoxyglucose and [C-11] L-methionine to metabolically characterize dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors

Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors are unique and benign congenital tu mors occurring frequently in children and adolescents. Differentiation from other low-grade tumors is important for management. Five patients with con firmed dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors were studied with positron e mission tomography using glucose and protein metabolic uptake in an attempt to categorize these tumors metabolically. Functional brain mapping also wa s obtained to aid in operative management. Results of the study conclude th at dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors, although having similar neuroim gaing characteristics to other low-grade tumors, are distinguished by a uni que metabolic profile. They are inactive tumors with no significant glucose or protein metabolic activity. The combination of preoperative positron em ission tomographic metabolic studies with functional brain mapping allowed for prediction of tumor type, defined eloquent areas of cortical function, and improved approach and resection of the tumors with minimal risk of neur ologic impairment.