18F-FDG PET/CT and Radiolabeled Leukocyte SPECT/CT Imaging for the Evaluation of Cardiovascular Infection in the Multimodality Context

March 11, 2024—The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) and Heart Rhythm Society (HRS), in partnership with 9 other societies, have released a consensus statement on the use of PET/CT and SPECT/CT imaging in diagnosing cardiovascular infections. The document provides guidance on clinical scenarios of suspected infections from native and prosthetic heart valves, cardiovascular implantable electronic devices, prosthetic material, and ventricular assist devices.

The 2024 consensus statement ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT and Radiolabeled Leukocyte SPECT/CT Imaging for the Evaluation of Cardiovascular Infection in the Multimodality Context aims to offer standardized protocols for PET/CT and SPECT/CT imaging in diagnosing cardiovascular infections. This pivotal document, endorsed by 11 leading societies, updates and expands upon existing guidelines, introducing comprehensive strategies for detecting infections associated with native and prosthetic heart valves, implantable cardiac devices, prosthetic materials, and ventricular assist devices. It includes essential guidance on employing advanced imaging techniques to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient care in complex cardiovascular infection scenarios.