Study to Calculate the Radiation Dosimetry in Subjects With Head and Neck Cancer

Preliminary observations suggest positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with an F-18 labeled thymidine analog (FLT) can selectively identify proliferating and non-proliferating tissues, including tumors. FLT uptake in the tumor appears to reflect the level of cells undergoing DNA synthesis. This is clinically important because cell proliferation markers have significant prognostic value, both prior to initiating radiotherapy and as they change during the course of therapy. In the proposed study, the researchers assess the biodistribution and radiation dosimetry of FLT to obtain the necessary data to file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The information collected under Radioactive Drug Research Committee (RDRC) approval will not be used for diagnostic purposes, to assess the subject's response to therapy, or for clinical management of the subject.