18F-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography with Computed Tomography in Pediatric Non-oncological Conditions: A Comprehensive Review.

This article examines the expanding role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography with computed tomography (PET/CT) in pediatric non-oncological conditions, moving beyond its established oncologic use. It outlines radiation dosimetry principles unique to children-emphasizing the As Low as Reasonably Achievable principle, reduced tracer activity, and low-dose CT protocols-given their heightened radiosensitivity. In pediatric neurology, FDG PET/CT aids evaluation of drug-refractory epilepsy (temporal and extratemporal foci) and neuronal migration/proliferation anomalies like focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), polymicrogyria, and hemimegalencephaly.