Optimization of 89Zr PET Imaging for Improved Multisite Quantification and Lesion Detection Using an Anthropomorphic Phantom

Objective: To harmonize multicenter 89Zr PET imaging for oncology trials and to evaluate lesion detection. Methods: Seven PET scanners were evaluated using a custom chest oncology phantom with nine spherical lesions, 7-20 mm in diameter. A 4:1 lesion to background ratio simulating a patient dose of 92.5 MBq. Various image reconstructions were evaluated. Images were assessed for lesion detection and recovery coefficients (RC) and background signal variance were measured. Results: Two scanners failed to meet the quality control criteria. Optimal reconstruction algorithms enabling adequate lesion detection and reliable quantification across the other five scanners were determined without compromising the data quality. On average, 95% of the 10 mm lesions were detected and the 7 mm lesion was visualized in only one scanner. The background variance range was 8.6 to 16%. Conclusion: We established multicenter harmonization procedures for 89Zr PET imaging in oncology, optimizing small lesion (≥10 mm) detectability and accurate quantification.