Additional value of integrated 18 F-choline PET/4D contrast-enhanced CT in the localization of hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands and correlation with molecular profile

Purpose: The localization of hyperfunctioning parathyroid gland(s) (HPTG) in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) with negative or inconclusive first-line imaging is a significant challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the role of integrated 18 F-choline PET/4D contrast-enhanced computed tomography (4DCeCT) in these patients, compare its detection rate and sensitivity with those of 18 F-choline PET/CT and (4DCeCT), and analyse the association between choline metabolism and morphological, biochemical and molecular parameters of HPTG. Methods: We prospectively enrolled 44 PHPT patients with negative or inconclusive first-line imaging. 18 F-Choline PET/CT and 4DCeCT were performed at the same time, and integrated 18 F-choline PET/4DCeCT images were obtained after coregistration. Experienced physicians examined the images. The SUVratio and degree of contrast enhancement were recorded for each positive finding. Histopathology, laboratory and multidisciplinary follow-up were used as the standard of reference. Both the detection rates and sensitivities of the three imaging modalities were calculated retrospectively. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the molecular profile of HPTGs. Results: 18 F-Choline PET/4DCeCT was positive in 32 of 44 patients with PHPT (detection rate 72.7%), and 31 of 31 surgically treated patients (sensitivity 100%). These results were significantly (p < 0.05) better than those of 18 F-choline PET/CT (56.8% and 80%, respectively) and those of 4DCeCT (54.5 and 74%, respectively). A significant correlation between SUV and calcium level was found. In a multivariate analysis, only calcium level was significantly associated with 18 F-choline PET/4DCeCT findings. SUVratio and Ki67 expression were significantly correlated. Conclusion: Integrated 18 F-choline PET/4DCeCT should be considered as an effective tool to detect PHPT in patients with negative or inconclusive first-line imaging. Choline metabolism is correlated with both calcium level and Ki67 expression in HPTG.