PMC4103752_01
Schemas for using quantitative FDG PET imaging as a predictive biomarker. (a) Design for single-institution observational studies, and for proposed multicenter replication. (b) Potential clinical application of marker-driven therapy.
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F1
Several studies have shown that early metabolic response measured by FDG PET after 1-4 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) predicts subsequent histopathologic response (Figure 1(a)). These results suggest that early changes in FDG uptake could be used as a predictive biomarker, with potential to direct therapy by discontinuing ineffective therapies and continuing effective therapies (Figure 1(b)).