Abstract
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) requires accurate therapeutic response assessment. This study evaluates the efficacy and prognostic value of [18F] fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (18F-FDG PET-CT) using the Deauville 5-point scale and maximum standardized uptake value (ΔSUVmax) methods in DLBCL patients. A retrospective study was conducted from January 2021 to December 2022, including 60 DLBCL patients. Patients underwent baseline and interim PET/CT scans during chemotherapy, treated with the R-CHOP regimen. The Deauville 5-point scale visually assessed PET/CT results, while the ΔSUVmax method calculated the percentage change in SUVmax. Consistency with the Lugano criteria was evaluated using the Kappa statistic. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS software (version 27.0, Chicago). Following 3 to 4 cycles of R-CHOP, 70.0% of patients achieved complete response, decreasing to 58.3% at 12 months. The Deauville 5-point scale classified 78.3% of patients as negative and 21.7% as positive, with moderate agreement with Lugano criteria (Kappa = 0.568, P < .01). The ΔSUVmax method identified 68.3% of patients as negative and 31.7% as positive, showing substantial agreement with Lugano criteria (Kappa = 0.728, P < .001). The ΔSUVmax method demonstrated higher sensitivity (81.33%), specificity (92.33%), negative predictive value (92.33%), positive predictive value (81.33%), and accuracy (90.68%). Both the Deauville 5-point scale and ΔSUVmax method are effective for evaluating interim therapeutic response and predicting 12-month outcomes in DLBCL patients. The ΔSUVmax method showed higher accuracy and predictive value. Integrating these methods into clinical practice can enhance patient prognosis and optimize treatment strategies.