PET/CT Imaging in Melanoma: Review of Current Evidence and Clinical Applications

Abstract Melanoma is regarded as a highly aggressive skin cancer due to its potential for early metastasis and poor outcomes in advanced stages. Early detection, accurate staging, follow-up imaging, and assessment of treatment response are critical for improving survival rates in melanoma patients. Positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), particularly utilizing 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG), has become a gold standard imaging modality in the comprehensive management of melanoma. This review critically examines the current literature on the utility of PET/CT in melanoma, focusing on its diagnostic and prognostic role, current indications and rational use. By synthesizing evidence from recent studies, this article highlights the strengths and limitations of PET/CT in clinical practice and explores future directions for research in the field.