Use of fluorine-18 fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography in assessing the process of tuberculous spondylitis

Fluorine-18 fluoro-2-deaxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography can be us ed to quantify the pathologic increase in glucose metabolism of inflammator y processes. Preliminary studies indicate a high level of sensitivity and s pecificity in detecting and identifying chronic osteomyelitis. This case st udy shows that positron emission tomography can be used to assess the proce ss of inflammatory activity in tuberculous spondylitis. This technology als o has the advantage of higher spatial resolution compared with other nuclea r medicine procedures. In addition, it can differentiate between bone and s oft tissue infection and allows imaging in the presence of metal implants.