Unlike traditional Molecular Imaging Services exams like X-rays and CT Scans that produce structural images of the body, molecular imaging services are designed to detect and monitor abnormal chemical activity at the cellular level. This gives physicians unique insights about the condition of your body and its ability to heal.
For example, a PET scan is able to detect the increased metabolic activity of cancer cells using the radiotracer FDG (a sugar). This allows physicians to visualize the location and extent of the disease, making it easier to determine the best course of treatment. This information is also useful for predicting a patient’s prognosis.
Top Nuclear Imaging Services Used in Today’s Medical Centers
Another type of molecular imaging is nuclear medicine, which uses small doses of radioactive substances called radiopharmaceuticals to track the body’s natural processes. These radiopharmaceuticals are detected by special types of cameras and computers to generate precise images of specific organs or tissues. Nuclear medicine can help diagnose a number of diseases, including cancer, thyroid disorders, bone disorders and neuroendocrine tumors.
Other types of molecular imaging include the use of genetically modified imaging agents known as reporter genes. These are genetically engineered in order to provide an image of specific cellular activity such as protein production or cell movement. These techniques are valuable in the study of human gene function, cell biology, tissue response to therapy and in drug development.