Novel PET tracers to distinguish the nature of residual masses after the completion of chemotherapy in metastatic testicular germ cell tumours: A systematic review.
Eur J Nucl Med Mol ImagingJul 2, 2026 (epub)
Alessandro Bertocchi, Fabio De Vincenzo, Matteo Perrino et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated novel PET tracers for assessing residual masses in metastatic testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) post-chemotherapy. Seventeen studies were included, highlighting promising tracers like αvβ3-integrin and ghrelin-based agents. Notably, αvβ3-targeted imaging showed potential in differentiating mature teratoma from necrosis, indicating improved diagnostic accuracy.
Key findings
- αvβ3-targeted imaging demonstrated promising preclinical results in distinguishing mature teratoma from necrosis.
- Ghrelin receptor tracers show high expression in TGCTs but are still in preclinical development.
- Claudin-6 is highly expressed in most TGCT histologies and may serve as a viable molecular target.
Why it matters
Improving the diagnostic accuracy of imaging in TGCTs can reduce unnecessary surgeries and enhance treatment response interpretation, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and personalized care.