Can the function of the tubarial glands be evaluated using [99mTc]pertechnetate SPECT/CT, [18F]FDG PET/CT, and [11C]methionine PET/CT?

Abstract Background The tubarial glands (TGs) are recently reported as newly found salivary gland structures that can be organs at risk predominantly localized in the tori tubarius nasopharynx using prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PSMA PET/CT). aims of this study were to analyze uptake TGs compared with other and palatine tonsils [ 99m Tc]pertechnetate SPECT/CT, 18 F]FDG PET/CT, 11 C]methionine PET/CT confirm whether these three imaging modalities useful evaluating physiological function TGs. Twelve 130 patients, who underwent SPECT/CT F]FDG/[ respectively, retrospectively included. was visually assessed semiquantitatively background, parotid (PSGs), submandibular (SmSGs), sublingual (SlSGs). Correlations uptakes those analyzed. Results invisible not significantly higher than background. Both correlated ( r = 0.56, p < 0.0001; 0.48, 0.0001, respectively). positively PSGs, SmSGs, SlSGs − 0.19, 0.03; 0.02, 0.81; 0.12, 0.17, SmSGs 0.24, 0.01; 0.32, 0.01, respectively), but PSGs 0.16, 0.08). Conclusions undetectable on SPECT/CT. clearly affected by little related glands. Therefore, it seems difficult evaluate imaging.