Evidence-based medicine: clinical utility of PET in oncology

The Australian Federal government has recently completed a two-year review into the safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of positron emission tomography (PET). The review process, which included a thorough critique of the current literature as well as consultation with experts in the field, has led to extended public funding of PET within Australia. A further positive outcome is a freely available evidence-base for the clinical use of PET that provides a valuable resource for specialists with an interest in cancer imaging throughout the world (www.health.gov.au/haf/pet). This article summarises the review findings with respect to the level of service provision, suitable imaging technologies and clinical indications than can be justified on the basis of current evidence.