Summary
Researchers in the UK have found that medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, often used for weight loss and diabetes, might affect cancer scan results. These drugs could cause certain scans to show patterns that look like cancer or inflammation, which can lead to confusion in diagnosis.
Key Facts
- GLP-1 receptor agonists are drugs often prescribed for weight loss and type 2 diabetes.
- These drugs may change the results of FDG PET-CT scans, a type of cancer scan.
- The scans might show unusual patterns that can be mistakenly interpreted as cancer.
- Researchers observed these patterns during a case series review of patients taking these medications.
- There are currently no UK or US national guidelines on managing these altered scan results.
- Australian guidance suggests certain measures like fasting before scans to manage this issue.
- Misinterpretation of scans could lead to unnecessary tests, incorrect cancer staging, and treatment delays.
- The study recommends recording patients’ medication histories to help interpret scan results accurately.
