Incremental value of 18F-fluorocholine PET/CT in the localization of double parathyroid adenomas

Abstract : A 73-year-old man displaying primary hyperparathyroidism with severe hypercalcemia (Ca: 4.1 mmol/l, PTH > 600 pmol/l) was referred for preoperative localization of a parathyroid adenoma. 99mTc-pertechnetate and 99mTc-sestaMIBI dual tracer scintigraphy displayed a mild focal uptake in the projection of the right thyroid lobe with negative ultrasonography. 18F-Fluorocholine PET/CT was quickly performed considering this discrepancy and not only confirmed the scintigraphic findings but also revealed a second contralateral focus of increased uptake, both later confirmed by operative consideration (the two other parathyroid glands are considered normal by the surgeon), pathology, and intraoperative parathyroid hormone assessment.