Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT imaging analysis and clinical treatment evaluation in patients with SMARCA4-deficient tumors: case reports of four patients.

PURPOSE

This study aims to characterize SMARCA4-deficient tumors using F-FDG PET/CT and explore its role in diagnosis, staging, therapeutic response assessment, and prognosis across multiple pathological subtypes.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed four patients with histologically confirmed SMARCA4-deficient tumors. Clinical features, F-FDG PET/CT findings, pathological subtypes, molecular characteristics, treatment modalities, and outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

All tumors demonstrated high FDG uptake, indicating elevated metabolic activity. Imaging patterns varied by subtype, including undifferentiated carcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer. Treatment strategies involved chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy with diverse responses. SMARCA4 deficiency was associated with poor prognosis and potential treatment resistance.

CONCLUSION

F-FDG PET/CT is valuable in the comprehensive assessment of SMARCA4-deficient tumors. Combined with molecular profiling, it enhances diagnostic accuracy and aids in individualized treatment planning. This case series offers preliminary guidance for clinicians managing this rare, aggressive tumor type.