Comparison of Femoral Neck PET Uptake and MRI Fat Fraction in a Healthy Aging Female Population

Motivation: Current x-ray-based methods to diagnose osteoporosis preclude a comprehensive evaluation of bone health evaluate bone marrow composition and metabolic activity. Goal(s): Our goal was to evaluate PET SUV and MRI fat fraction in the femoral neck to elucidate age-related differences in a healthy aging female population. Approach: [18F]NaF PET/MRI hip scans using a 3T GE hybrid PET/MRI system was used to assess SUV and fat fraction in 12 healthy females (6 younger, 6 older, 24 hips). Results: Older women had significantly higher fat fraction than younger women. Baseline PET SUV did not differ significantly between groups, but heat maps revealed distinct uptake patterns. Impact: [18F]NaF PET/MRI provides a promising multimodal approach to assess bone health, enabling precise monitoring of osteoporosis progression and treatment effects. By revealing insights into bone marrow composition and metabolic activity, this technique may enhance understanding of age-related bone changes.