This Journal CME activity will review Infection vs inflammation in prosthetic heart valves by [18F]FDGPET/CT: A practical tutorial for accurate interpretation. 

This activity is targeted at imaging professionals and is intended to provide the latest information on clinical practice and cutting-edge scientific advances in nuclear cardiology and cardiac imaging.

After reading and reflecting upon this article in the Journal Nuclear Cardiology, the learner should be able to:

1. Differentiate between infection and reactive inflammation in prosthetic heart valves using appropriate imaging criteria with [18F]FDG-PET/CT.
2. Employ accurate timing and preparation protocols to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of [18F]FDG-PET/CT scans.
3. Interpret Valve Uptake Index (VUI) values and FDG uptake patterns within PET/CT scans to distinguish between normal postoperative inflammation and prosthetic valve infection.
4. Evaluate alternative imaging approaches such as radiolabeled white blood cell (WBC) SPECT/CT and their comparative strengths and limitations in diagnosing infective endocarditis.

The purpose of this CME activity in the Journal of Nuclear Cardiology is to increase the learners’ competence in the application of nuclear cardiology strategies in clinical practice.

Evaluation Deadlines: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ARRT Category A, and Participation Credits = March 18, 2026

The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.



Physicians: The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Technologists: The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology is a recognized provider of continuing education credit for technologists. ASNC’s Continuing Education (CE) credit is accepted by both NMTCB and ARRT. This Journal-based activity has been approved for a maximum of 1 ARRT Category A credit for Technologists.

Release Date: March 19, 2025
Expiration Date: March 18, 2026

ASNC members may claim continuing education credits at no charge. Non-members will be charged $50 per activity.