Amirreza Shamshirgaran

Dr. Amirreza Shamshirgaran

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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22 October 2025 in Cancers
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
ASAmirreza Shamshirgaran
Amirreza Shamshirgaran
MSMohqmmad Hadi Samadi
Mohqmmad Hadi Samadi
MSMichael Saeed
Michael Saeed
Sara HarsiniSara Harsini
Sara Harsini
PSPegah Sahafi
Pegah Sahafi
EAEmran Askari
Emran Askari
Background: While prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted imaging has revolutionized metastatic detection, unspecific bone uptake (UBU)—particularly in the ribs—is a common but diagnostically challenging finding in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on PSMA-avid rib lesions in PCa and to propose a structured approach for differentiating true metastases from benign mimics. Methods: A comprehensive literature search across PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science identified relevant studies on PSMA imaging interpretation, tracer-specific patterns, rib lesion morphology, and clinical correlates. Data on uptake intensity, CT features, lesion number, location, tracer type, patient-specific risk factors, and follow-up behavior were extracted and analyzed. Results: Most solitary rib lesions are benign, particularly in low-risk patients or when located in the anterior/lateral arcs. Metastatic lesions are more likely to present as multiple foci, show cortical destruction on CT, exhibit high uptake intensity, and occur in patients with elevated PSA, high Gleason score, or ongoing androgen deprivation. 18F-PSMA-1007 is especially prone to UBU in the ribs compared to 68Ga-PSMA-11. Based on these variables, we propose a clinical decision tree to guide interpretation of PSMA-avid rib lesions. Conclusions: Accurate interpretation of rib lesions on PSMA PET/CT requires a multimodal, context-sensitive approach. Our diagnostic decision tree guides precise differentiation of benign versus metastatic rib lesions, enhancing staging accuracy and clinical decision-making. Biomarker-guided therapies offer potential for personalized treatment, though rib-specific validation remains a critical need.