Molecular Imaging

Molecular imaging (also called nuclear medicine or nuclear imaging) can image the function of cells inside the body at the molecular level. This includes the imaging modalities of positron emission computed tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging. How does PET and SPECT imaging work? Small amounts of radioactive material (radiopharmaceuticals) injected into a patient. These can use sugars or chemical traits to bond to specific cells. The radioactive material is taken up by cells that consume the sugars. The radiation emitted from inside the body is detected by photon detectors outside the body. Computers take the data to assemble images of the radiation emissions. Nuclear images may appear fuzzy or ghostly rather than the sharper resolution from MRI and CT.  But, it provides metabolic information at a cellular level, showing if there are defects in the function of the heart, areas of very high metabolic activity associated with cancer cells, or areas of inflammation, data not available from other modalities. These noninvasive imaging exams are used to diagnose cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, bone disorders and other disorders. 

RSS icon

ASNC Releases Dose-Reduction Guidelines for Nuclear Cardiology

Technological improvements in image acquisition and software processing in nuclear cardiology should allow physicians to shave patient imaging times dramatically or cut radiation doses fourfold, according to a new preferred practice statement from the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC).

Honing in on Lung Cancer

PET/CTsince its introduction in 2001has emerged as the primary diagnostic tool in the staging of lung cancer when compared to PET and CT alone. The shift from CT to PET/CT will continue with technological advances in respiratory gating and molecular imaging.

Experts Discuss NOPR & CMS: Will PET Gain U.S. National Coverage for All Indications?

Molecular Imaging Insight spoke with three experts to discuss the evidence supporting a coverage expansion, reaction to CMS proposed decision memo and speculate on what the final verdict might be.

Hybrid Imaging: Redefining Women's Heart Health

 PET/CT and SPECT/CT are helping to detect and diagnose coronary artery disease in women earlier and better. Previously under-diagnosed or misdiagnosed altogether particularly in women, new exams are effectively assessing myocardial perfusion, offering an alternative to nuclear stress tests that often lead to false positive results in women. Fewer attenuation artifacts also mean sharper images.
Displaying 641 - 644 of 644
Design by Adaptive Theme