Where can hiatal hernias be observed in relation to 18F-FDG uptake?

Hiatal hernias occur when a portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. In the context of 18F-FDG uptake, the gastroesophageal junction is particularly relevant because this is the anatomical location where the esophagus meets the stomach. When observing hiatal hernias through imaging techniques, increased 18F-FDG uptake can often be noted at the gastroesophageal junction due to the presence of increased metabolic activity associated with the herniated tissue or any inflammatory processes that may occur in that area.

The significance of the gastroesophageal junction lies not only in its anatomical importance but also in its proximity to potential sources of increased glucose metabolism, such as tumors, inflammation, or other pathological changes that may accompany hiatal hernias. This makes the gastroesophageal junction a key area for evaluation in a PET scan when assessing cases related to hiatal hernias. Understanding the metabolic activity in this region helps in differentiating between benign and malignant processes, confirming the clinical indication for the scan.